Pins file in line- swords piercing cloth, perilous and shining.

The iron’s sear flattens the landscape, exposing the flaws in strategy.

Swords realign till the boiling heat of near mistake cools.

Scissors attack and obliterate the fold, anticipating the outcome with finality.

Survey the field in the calm before the hammering drums begin to sound.

Put the pedal in its place and turn on the switch.

Light shines bright and warm on gleaming metal.

Bring forth the colors.

Pull out the balance wheel and uniform the bobbin.

Wind up the artillery.

Restore the balance.

Tension and stitch click into formation.

Set the spool and wind the fuse through guides, uptake, and needle.

Join that of the bobbin and pull back to a safe distance to avoid disaster in the trench.

Fit the machine about the landscape and drop the foot.

Activate the pedal to sound the drums.

Battle commences.

Forward.

Backward.

Forward again.

Establish an anchor point

Then soldier on.

Remove any sword in your way, brave enough to face your determined hands.

File the fallen away in the tin box off the field.

Stop.

Lower the needle.

Rotate the plan of attack then charge ahead.

Drums hammer on.

The field is pierced until the last seam is sealed.

Forward.

Backward.

Forward again.

Strengthen your anchor point.

Pull back.

Sever the machine.

Survey the outcome of the battle.

Collect the fallen.

Look for the stitches that won’t heal right;

Rip out and resew the wounds.

Cautery awaits them on the ironing board.

With the badge of victory to follow.