the big store

so much
in the stores, on the shelves
hanging on
the racks.
unbought
untouched or worn,
pushed into
stacks, into the caverns
of seconds,
thirds,
off to where?
some other country
some other store
that prefers
polyester
or plaid, bold striped
with photographs,
the roof can hardly
hold the changing
of seasons,
the cheaply made sweaters
that unravel
with a single wash,
next to summer shorts,
spring
dresses,
the thread bare
shirts
and pants, shoes
with soles about to
come off.
clothes for masses, cheap
and plentiful.
hot off the press,
from the sewing
machines
of a factory that runs
all night.