In this great age of communication, there a lot of people you can't actually understand. I know everyone tweets, and twits and texts and all that, but actually we've all got voices, and it is awfully nice to hear them and if you can understand what people are saying.

The quote by Penelope Keith reflects on the paradox of the age of communication, where, despite the proliferation of social media, texting, and constant online interaction, there are still many voices that are not fully understood. Keith suggests that while people may tweet, text, and communicate in a variety of ways, the true essence of communication comes from hearing and truly understanding each other's voices. She emphasizes that hearing someone speak, and being able to connect with what they are saying, is a deeper form of communication that modern digital forms often lack.

Keith’s statement highlights a concern about the potential disconnect that can arise in the digital age, where people may be communicating more than ever but not always in ways that foster true understanding or meaningful connection. Although technology allows for instant communication, it can also strip away the nuances of tone, emotion, and personal connection that come with speaking directly to someone. Keith expresses a longing for a more personal and authentic form of interaction, where the clarity of someone's voice and intentions can truly be understood.

The origin of this quote likely stems from Keith’s background in the entertainment industry, particularly as an actress known for her work in British television. Having spent much of her career in front of a camera, Keith has witnessed firsthand how communication has evolved in the digital age. Her perspective reflects a certain nostalgia for the days when people communicated face-to-face, and the richness of human connection was conveyed through spoken words and physical presence.

Ultimately, Keith’s quote serves as a reminder that despite technological advancements, true understanding and connection often come from more personal, direct forms of communication. The digital world may allow for faster and more widespread communication, but it is still essential to hear and truly understand the voices of those around us for meaningful relationships to thrive.