Woman Ironing

each flap flipped
methodically pressed
hand against iron
strength firm and wrought
contained in tempered warmth





determined gaze
she
steadies between
her folded draperies
artfully hung as emblems
of this woman
                       her craft


each diligent stroke
smoothing ripples
folding ever against
colors laundered 
                           with wear
formed with palettes
                           forever
standing in still life
a distant vision 
                            time
sketched in painted motion