BREAKING

Strung at the end of the lunge rein,
hanging loosely looped
over the gloved hand,
trotted a colt
majestic.

His superior strength
controlled
with ease apparent
as she moved in tight circles
wielding the whip,
while never using it
to brand his flank.
Although raised,
the plaited cord touched sand,
swaying tassel to remind occasional
of passage forward.

The roller on his back,
imitation of saddle
with girth to seize
his next subjection to dominance
by woman.

But when she straddled
he stood uncertain.
Four legs spread
to counter balance

accommodation for unaccustomed weight.

A hesitant sideways step.

A definite command.
Transmitted through clenched muscles of two legs
coupled with veracity of voice,
causing hooves to tentative placement

of a new rhythm
in tandem.

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