Arthur wrote,
Just as a minor point though, don't you think
we can learn from animals and their behaviour?? Regards Arthur.
Hi Arthur,
Hmm, an intersting question. My first reaction was to say, yes, of course. But then I stopped to think and I have to say that it really depends on what kind of learning and in what situation. I don´t think I believe that people would `learn´ to be loyal or brave in the sense that those words might be applied to Comanche from the horse itself. I can´t really believe in a person observing the horse´s behaviour and thinking, yes, I want to be like that horse. On the other hand, there do seem to be quite remarkable similarities between human and animal behaviour, that zoologists can study and publicise, and this might well give us insight into our own behaviour. On this subject, do you know the novel by William Boyd called Brazzaville Beach? It concerns (amongst other things) a group of researchers investigating ape behaviour and suggests some things we might `learn´ from that. If you haven´t read it, I can recommend it highly. Since one of the characters is a mathematician, you might find additional interest and food for thought.
I´ve just realised that this should really go b/c but I´ve already removed your personal email address and if I click on `back´ I´ll lose all this so I´ll send it via The-Works with apologies to everyone else.
Best wishes, Mike
----- 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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