Ballet Corps Member Fixing Her Hair
Edgar Degas, pastel on paper, 1900-1902
It would not do to come undone
for a stray hair
landing on a cheek
to suggest
imperfection
freckled skin
uneven seam
It would not do to draw attention
for an unsteady smile
or shaking hand
to hint at
fear
teary eyes
bitten lips
Take a moment to compose yourself.
It would not do to come undone.
This piece was published in the 2012 edition of Ballyhoo, an annual arts publication by The King’s University College.