First Cut

The first cut is brutal
always deep with cold
blade tearing into timber
opening a pathway
for subtler strokes
slicing with sharpness, 
carving strongly,
the base for intricate designs
on blocks gripped tightly
in the jaws of steel vices

The last cut is gentler
a loving after thought
adding a signature
to shaped and shaved fibres
decorating with care
completed artistry
the chisel held lightly
like a violin bow
in the closing movement
of a great concerto.



David Subacchi
Wrexham
Wales (UK)
david.subacchi@tiscali.co.uk