Step by step
we work out the kinks
smooth the rough spots
grind sharp edges
modify tempo
stretch compress polish
I imagine it's like the way
they used to make musical instruments
before it was done by machines;
the hand-work,
eyes telling fingers
where to rub, what to carve away
Yes, by hand
gradually
an unfolding
plenty of breaths
lots of careful observation
and steady refinement
Eventually,
always surprisingly,
the thing emerges
formless to form
shakes off its husk
and makes music