As there is a hint of Autumn in the air, it seems appropriate to post this poem by Maggie Redding. It was inspired by her first sight of the painting Le Rappel des Glaneuses by Jules Breton, which depicts peasant women returning from fields where they have picked and sifted the leavings of grain. This back-breaking labour was allowed only until dusk on the last day of harvest, representing a substantial contribution to the diet of desperately poor families.
The Gleaners
For the poor, the leftovers, the gleanings.
The rich call, not merely the tune,
But whole symphonies of greed.
For one day, the stubbled fields are yielded to
Desperate women, broad-faced, broad-shouldered,
Scrabbling for ears of wheat for their winter bread.
Daylight fades. The pace increases.
Only till dusk permission is granted
To gather their meagre harvest.
The uncouth summons of the landlord’s man
Straightens bent backs, releases aching arms.
Women and children move to the gate.
Sharp stalks prickle bare feet.
With sun- and breeze-burned faces,
They carry home, gratefully, their gleanings.
Resigned, wistful glances are cast
Towards the last glimpse of light.
Now let winter and landlord do their worst.
