In a Clothing Boutique

Local girls in ceaseless trains
touch adeptly, half aware of
lithe perfections taken for granted.
Arms swing naked; hands like wands
handle cloth thereby enchanted.

Garments yet unblessed by flesh
hang disconsolately unbodied:
virgin-wear not yet perspired in.
Fair flowers all, these shapeless things
A girl might choose to be desired in.


1999