Midnight, time for
a tune-up.
She pushes
back her head, rubs her sides.
The file pushing
up slowly before stopping.
Bindings:
tighten, check for wear.
Clean bench,
clean conveyor, sweep shavings from under the vise.
She watches
the wax drip onto the floor.
Wipe and sharpen
edges, inspect for defects.
Her blunt
and tender fingers rest upon the tail.
The creaking,
vaulted ceiling - breathless and dark.
Calibration:
her breathing is quick.
Micrometer,
speed drill, checklist, the taste of a peach.
Outside,
the wind whirls like ratchets.