In most towns you’ll find a woman
in the corner of the square
propped like a doll.
She has no voice unless
someone’s hand is under her shirt.
If you choose to photograph her,
you will see she has no mouth
and if you stare long enough,
no arms either.
Though she is fed and dressed
by the good women, who buzz
and cluck, put on her face,
carefully cover her hair,
tie a wedding ring
on a scarlet ribbon
around her neck, she sits alone,
smile tight; eyes bright;
her only defense.
Photo by Axel Naud
