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| Nora with 'The Mary Myler Memorial Perpetual Cup'. |
Timeless Skill
He works alone, sixth generation,
placing the manikins for display
once a thriving family business
the master tailor prepares for a long day.
Through the plate glass window
hot rays of a welcome spring sun shine,
today he has a final fitting
a bespoke suit for a man of distinction.
After years of tireless hand sewing
his index finger bears all the
hallmarks of a pin cushion.
Once feet and inches
Now metres and centimetres
once Singer sewing machines
now automated industrial models.
His forebears turned out twenty suits a year
this three-piece tweed, lovingly crafted, only his fourth this year.
He checks his stitching, slope of the shoulder,
and waits
the most important customer of his life
the most important suit he’s ever made
an inaugural suit of honour
fit for a President.
-Nora Fleming
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| Michael Johnson, Master Tailor |
