Headless horseman
a man killed in battle, a ghost
doomed to ride through foreign lands–
or a demon, a dark fairy, calling the name of those
about to die–
perhaps he is Death himself—
perhaps he rides, not only a horse, but a donkey, or camel,
or he may travel on foot, or rumble on a motorcycle—
no need for a helmet–
he holds his head at his side,
if he summons you, ignore him, look away–
no one lives who sees his face.
Paul Brookes is hosting a month-long ekphrastic challenge using folklore images to celebrate the launch of his new poetry collection, “As Folktaleteller.” You can see the images here and also read the other responses.
Yesterday and today: Merril's historical musings 
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Thank you!
Very interesting, even though i hope it’s not predictive. Happy Monday, Merril! Enjoy a good week! xx Michael
Thank you, Michael.
I hope it’s not predictive. 🙂 The headless horseman folklore is so odd.
Hope you have a great week, too!
I wonder what’s behind all the stories of headless horsemen. There are so many of them!
I know. It’s such a weird thing. I remember when I was young, my brother telling me about a Revolutionary War headless horseman soldier in Philadelphia. They’re everywhere!🤣
They are! Must tell us something about ourselves.
They must.
Oh wow! You have set the tone for the season in the most amazing way dear Merril!
Thank you so much, dear Rene! 💙
So welcome!
A shivery Folkover poem suggesting that we have more to be afraid of than we know!
Ominous, all these bodies without heads. (K)
It is–such an odd thing to contemplate!
Suitably chilling
Thank you, Derrick.
Frightening! I think I would indeed look away 😱
I would, too! 😱
Eeeek! This Folktober challenge is perfect for the month of Hallowe’en!
Your poem lived up to that amazing drawing!
Thank you, Resa! It’s fun learning all this folklore.
It really is! Some I know, most not.
I really like the Selkie legend.
If you can find it, watch The Secret of Roan Inish (1994). It’s a beautiful movie we watched with our kids.
Okay!