With respect, I don't think this image needs a 'dodgy' curve process. I think it works wonderfully well as a straight up unadulterated B&W.
We get a beautiful figure delineated by a lovely shard of light, the subject's form is in contrast to the curtain's conforming and concertina'ed lines. Her hand is nicely balanced at the curtain too.
I like the bottom right corner holding a small amount of detail, and we all know what that is.
Also, we wonder what she is looking at and seeing up at the window, uncovered like she is and whether anyone has seen her.
Anyway, those are the things I appreciate in this image. Nice one, Nigel. It's a far better image/ aspect than your initial one.