Abby from QC

(from Renoir's The Dancer [1874])

Miss Lovinia, a dancer you know
Performed recently in a grand ballet.
After, she called me to paint a portrait
Of her, The Lady, in a silken gown.
As I approached her house she called to me.
"Monsieur Renoir, why, you're already here!
Come quickly, for my mother is waiting."
Her lilting tone made me feel very nice,
And I longed for my childhood again.
As I reached the door Lovinia sat
And asked me if I'd like a cup of tea.
She posed in a dancing position while
I, I prepared my brush and white paint
And soon Lovinia came on canvas,
White skirt billowing out into the scene
Clutching a handkerchief white like the snow
Hair ribbon tied at a jaunty angle.
Mrs. Lablondelle paid me what was due
While saying, "What a likeness of my girl!"
I hurried out, happy at my own success
Imagining dancers floating away.

...Abigail Boberg, Age 10, Quebec City