Still she stood as the master ordered
Her helper’s overalls were exchanged for a black revealing gown
Bought from the Maiden Fair store
Her master was an artist
Everyone knew him
She was privileged to work for him they said
She wondered what the privilege was
To stand for hours in a dress she was coerced to wear
First with bribes, then threats
She succumbed; she had brothers and sisters to feed
She stood with rage running through her veins
Be still, don’t shake he said
She stood still, planning in her head
On how to purchase
The powder they said that can’t be detected
When given in small amounts over a long period of time
A tiny smile appeared on her face
He captured it succinctly though not knowing why
A tiny smile appeared on her face
He captured it succinctly though not knowing why
Ha! An example of womansplaining – how we tell them everything they need to know and they barely notice since we are beneath them. Interesting sketch of coping strategies in class dominance as well. I like how resentful the maid character is to be wearing the velvet gown – anti-cliche response to the Pretty Woman syndrome. I like how her character hates the lie of her velvet presentation.
LSW