On tights

I notice some nylon tights on the pavement, just beside a trash can. It looks like it’s the sort with the hold-in function. These have never done anyone any good.

I’ll never forget the woman I shared a room with after giving birth. Just five hours after she was wheeled in with her newborn baby, she got up, put on makeup, a dress and then pulled on one of these. Lying in my bed, not planning to walk anywhere soon, never mind get dressed, I was stunned. Her husband encouraged it and also stressed that his parents were waiting. No one should have to go near nylon tights until at least six weeks after giving birth.

These were probably a size too small. Maybe a woman bought them for a job interview. Wearing them made her day a nightmare. Then, I imagine her coming out of the building, feeling nauseous because of these black tights, screaming: ‘Enough is enough!’ stripping them off right here on the street, and throwing them in the direction of the can. Not even looking back to see if they hit.