Scene 393

SCENE 393

Men
were gathering in the harvest.
Womenfolk
were washing the sweat
out of yesterday's clothes,
keeping a wary eye
on children
playing in odd corners
of the market place.
Dogs
of the villagesized town
were sniffing round the fountain
where a gendarme
sat
sleeping.
Flies hovered
around the dogshit.
A young girl,
soft blonde hair gleaming in the autumn sunlight
her white dress hemmed with dustgrey,
brought a donkey
to drink at the fountain.
Her cheeks were radiant
but blue eyes were hard
cool under the heat of the sun.
Even today
it isn't fun
for a Gascony peasant girl
stared at by tourists.

© GERALD ENGLAND.

Composed: Sheffield, 26th March 1971

Publications

1987 Dictionary of International Literature (USA)
1989 Centre for Hispanic Performing Arts Supplemento (USA)
1992 Bouillabaisse (USA)
1992 Radio Void (USA)
1992 STEALING KISSES (Hyde, New Hope International)
1997 The Bard's Library (Internet)