Inspired by Jacob Lawrence's The Seamstress, 1946

She creates a world in stitches from bolts
of silky fabric and delicate thread.
She watches this world fold or unfold as
it drops off the sewing table in hushed
tones. She whispers back, I'm almost finished.
From a basement apartment she watches
them wear what she creates, what makes them
step lightly up the stairs, advertise
her artistic brilliance and good taste.

What lures them to her are yards of red silk
you see draped on those mannequins. A red
rose in bloom; petals hidden are exposed.
Pin up this red and stitch it in place. Wait
for someone to find this world she creates.