Final answer:
The blind man in 'Cathedral' communicates through verbal, tactile, and nonverbal means. Carver's message about communication is to look beyond appearances and stereotypes for genuine understanding.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the short story 'Cathedral' by Raymond Carver, the blind man communicates in several ways. Firstly, he uses verbal communication to engage in conversation with the narrator and his wife.
Secondly, he uses tactile communication, such as touching objects and people, to connect with the world around him. Lastly, the blind man uses nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions and gestures, to express himself.
Carver's message about communication in 'Cathedral' is that true understanding and connection between people can be achieved by looking beyond physical appearances and stereotypes, and by being open to different perspectives and experiences.
Through the character of the blind man, Carver shows that communication goes beyond words and that empathy and connection can be established through genuine curiosity and willingness to listen.