Russ, I visited this thread many times, but have not commented on it until now. I felt the image deserves more than just "+1" (as much as I am often guilty of resorting to it).
In short, I think you made a beautiful and powerful image.
As much as I often admit that I do not "get" street photography, this one hits me really hard. Maybe because it uses human presence to deliver the same symbolism I am often after in my landscape photography: solitude, splendid isolation, quiet desperation...
I am with you on the benefit of not seeing her face. Even before someone mentioned it, I thought that precisely that adds drama. I also noticed a disconnect between the right-hand drawing motion and the face turned in the other direction... the slanted hair bangs indicate quick head movement... all contributing to the mystery of what exactly was her state of mind at the time.
Others already mentioned other powerful elements and symbols in the image: circles, implied poverty and neglect, loneliness, hiding, seeking protection... Allow me to add one more to that: the fence in the background. The fence contributes to the symbolism of protection and separation from the outside world.
In conclusion, and although it is your signature phrase, allow me to use it as mine this time: bravo!