What Needn’t Be Spoken
Needn’t Be Spoken
No there is no need to speak at all
and once all emotion has melted away then
it’s only you that is uneasy
the words are too easy
if they can fill
a canyon with the pain
or of empty
promise
High In these mountains we go for days
without speaking at all
the eye contact alone
enough for both our souls
for both our hearts
or the gentle touch of hands
on the reigns
or the squeeze of dusty boots
at her flanks
The best riding is when you bend and mold
a horse at the turn in the trail
to gently brush a leg against the
bark of a Ponderosa
and pull in my knees to
her flanks to curve
her around a boulder
one fluid communication
no words are needed
And at the end of the ride the saddle
hung by the pens the reigns
on the iron hooks
of welded horseshoes
she’s been brushed and grained
and turned lose to run
as she was meant by
what needn’t be spoken
- Open Range - May 2, 2024
- Whispers among the balsams…. - May 8, 2023
- Do not stand at my grave ………. - April 19, 2023
Nicely penned of that silent communication between man and horse. Very emotive and a pleasure to read my friend.
I loved this description of the unspoken communication between a man and his horse. Excellent poem, Ed.
To be but one. A man and his animal friend, whether dog, cat or horse. The connection is sureal. Our spirits blend and both know each others strengths and weakness. But silence golden except for understanding and guiding eyes. Windows to our mutual souls. Well penned my friend.
I enjoyed this much, Ed. I no longer have my companion horse, but I do miss him, and can feel what you’ve expressed in this piece, Thank you!
Oh! This brought back precious memories, Ed. It has been years since I rode, yet the sacred bond and communication between rider and horse is still in a beautiful place for me. The nuance of the time together, the slight movements of signs and the caring for each other, the warmth and unspoken love I still feel in my heart. Wonderful memories and a great work of art you pen here. Well done, indeed.
Ed have you ever though of reading at Cowboy Poetry readings. Nevada has some wonderful gatherings. Would you mind if I read this poem here in Reno to promote the TCE anthology. Jamie
Jamie , What an honor ,Thank You Of course you may read this , and read it as your own too ! ,…………ED