Seeing Sounds: What It’s Like to Live With Synesthesia

An interview with the world’s leading expert on the mysterious condition

Image: Tuomas Lehtinen/Getty Images

Dr. Richard Cytowic knows life is not always black and white. About 40 years ago, the Washington D.C.–based neurologist was having dinner with friends when one told him that when he tastes food or drink, he also feels it in his face and hands. ”Oh, you…