Its fine, Mike, it is sentimental. The sentiment is respect and honour for a
brave animal. Comanche had proven his braveness in several encounters,
carrying on despite his wounds, not just at Little Big Horn but before that.
He took seven wounds at LBH and was the only survivor of Custer's Last
Stand. It took a year for him to recover from his wounds. he lived to be 29
and died just after the battle of Wounded Knee although he took no part. I
make no apologies for respecting a horse or any animal who shows such
courage and loyalty.The poem is slight. I was moved by his story and felt he
deserved mention. His stuffed skin is still preserved in a museum in Kansas
and is an object of great affection. There is no need to apologise for
finding it not to your taste.Just as a minor point though, don't you think
we can learn from animals and their behaviour?? Regards Arthur.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Mike Horwood" <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Thursday, February 20, 2003 6:50 AM
Subject: Re: Survivor: Comanche
Hello Arthur,
This one is not for me. There´s nothing wrong with the
language, but the subject doesn´t appeal, which of course is a purely
personal thing. Animal poems as such are not my favourites and I find the
angle here a bit too sentimental. Others may well feel differently.
Best wishes, Mike
--- Alkuperäinen viesti ---
Survivor: Comanche
The battle sounds had ceased
the victorious ululations faded
the gelding Comanche
waited patiently obedient
beside the still body of his master
the bullet and arrow wounds upon his flanks
crusted with flies
twitch of withers
the hoof drawn across the ground
the loving snicker
urged no response.
Two days later
they came and found Comanche
saddle swung under his belly
still as a statue
carved from anthracite
dead Keogh beside him.
Sole survivor of Little Big Horn
who knew all
but could tell nothing.
Pied with scars
that bought
free pastures now
and free to go where he might
unsaddled and beloved
a bucket of beer on payday
or unbidden
as Lily Bolero rang
quietly emerging
from the shadows of the fort
to take his place
on every big parade
and lead them all
with rolling eye and arching neck
and soft full flow of mane.
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