Sunday, April 10, 2016

The Spear-Danes Thank Beowulf for Killing the Monsters

Dawn Potter

Eight horses—
heads tossing throats pulsing with sweat
bridles glinting a streak of sun black grey
pied chestnut hooves thudding clattering
a lurch quick shiver of mane
forelock tail cascade of muscle
trembled nose trembled lip
and the hot breath the wild almond eyes—

For you, says the king.

All for you.





* * *

This fairly new poem has had numerous titles. For a long time I simply called it "The Gift," but that didn't make the allusive context clear at all. I'm not satisfied with this version, but at least you have a better chance of comprehending the reference.

At some point in April, the CavanKerry Press blog will be reprinting the poem as part of its Poetry Month celebration. Today I thought I'd share it with you. I wish I could give you eight horses instead.

6 comments:

Carlene said...

I love the energy in this poem--thanks for sharing it. It makes me happy to know where these new poems are coming from, and to be present--even at a distance--while they are imagined and formed in words...

Dawn Potter said...

Sending a huge hug to you, Carlene-- Thank you for being my friend.

Ruth said...

Dawn, I especially like the verbs as they capture the drama and intensity of the battle. I got a picture instantly with the last 2 lines. Thank you for sharing.

Judy Kaber said...

A really visceral picture. Definitely like the title too.

Dawn Potter said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Dawn Potter said...

Thanks, all, for the comments . . . especially weighing on the title. That's a big help.