Around the stable
stars cartwheel.

A woman steps
from the inn

Potato peeler in hand
to enter the stable.

As she approaches
to gaze at the infant

Potato peelings curl
at the foot of the manger.

The hay lights the crib
in all directions,

Scattered strokes of yellow
swirl.

In the background,
Joseph and Mary,
quiet onlookers.

Their bundled child
draws all eyes.

Even Vincent is here
painted in the corner.

His red beard
catches the eye,

Clashes with the canvas.
A dissonant chord,
his signature.