The folds in the robe
define. The arm
is suggested by the
sweep of the robe,
the sleeve
hollowed from wood.
The arc of the arm
holds a child’s head.
The woodgrain
of the mother’s breast,
rounded, rests against
Joseph’s chest.
The fold in the robe
defines. The turn
in the road is the way.
The vine twines
around the stake.
The fold in the robe
reveals the character
dormant until
the knife carves.