The Outer Workroom

A woodcarver I once knew carved all day in the back room while his wife ran their outer shop. In the shop, or gallery as they called it, a selection of the carver's works were exhibited alongside works by other artisans on commission. Since he produced a vast quantity of carvings and only a small number could be displayed, I asked how he determined which ones were chosen. See that one? he said. I looked at the carving he indicated. That will probably go to the outer workroom. See that one? I looked where he was pointing now. That one won't.