The Textures    by  Mary O'Donoghue

I am velvet.
Smooth nap,
But rub me up
The wrong way
And I bristle,
Growing hackles
Beneath your palms.

I am moire.
Metallic skin,
But scan me
Under lamplight,
See silk
Shot through
With routes of tears.

I am tulle.
Lively bustle,
But gather me
Between your hands,
I rustle,
Murmur,
Settle.

© Mary O'Donoghue

from her book 'Tulle' pub.Salmon Publishing Ltd.(Ireland)