actress

actress

I blush away
the footlights that frame
your face
in the applause
after you have sung

and the evening has gone
along the street
with me.

I remember
a note or two
lingering, unwilling
to leave you
removing makeup
and costume,

until you shimmer
pale and lovely,
naked for a moment
between scenes.

I memorize bits of you,
movements and lines
and the shape of your hands,

but I have no gift
for that expression,
and am soon lost
in wondering how

you manage
with such grace.

                     for Janelle Baker