A Peasant Woman

I saw you sit waiting with your sewing on your knees, Till a man should claim the comfort of your body And your industry and presence for his own.

I saw you sit waiting with your sewing on your knees, Till the child growing hidden in your body Should become a living creature in the light.

I saw you sit waiting with your sewing on your knees, Till your child who had ventured to the city Should return to the shelter of his home.

I saw you sit waiting with your sewing on your knees --Your unreturning son was in the city-- Till Death should come along the cobbled street.

I saw you sit waiting with your sewing on your knees.