Inspired by image 2.14, The Wild Hunt
Riders in the Clouds
Now the hooves,
how they clip clappity clap,
thunder boom and
snap the clouds of black and grey
in half across the sky,
the gods astride the massive beasts,
with swords and pikes, they thrust, and ride,
wide-eyed, hair whip-blowing
sparking arcs
of light across the sky.
We have made them in our image,
full of jealousy, anger, and passion,
and in our carelessness, we’ve given them
too much might.
Tempests, dark nights of the soul,
the sun chariot skyward glides,
gilded horses with glittering manes
life that bursts and wanes
endless cycles and fate—
fatiguing and familiar—
we carry the dust of stars
without their power,
we are hunters and hunted,
this paradox, ours.
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 
I love all of the tumultuous cloud imagery, Merril!
Thank you, Ingrid.
It needs editing, but I’m please all the energy came though. 🙂
Yes, turning the myth back on itself—we created gods in our own image. How could it be otherwise?
Yes, exactly. 🙂
Reblogged this on NEW BLOG HERE >> https:/BOOKS.ESLARN-NET.DE.
Thank you!
😊❤️😄
Reblogged this on The Wombwell Rainbow.
Thank you, Paul.
I’ve seen other writers try to mimic the sound of horses’ hooves. This I think comes closer to the actual sound than any I’ve read: “clip clappity clap.” Perfect!
Yes, the energy comes through.
Thank you so much, Marian.
I really tried, and I’m happy you think it worked! 😊
So much carelessness…(k)
Yes, so much.
Those beginning images of the gods hunting astride their massive beasts unsettled me and as I moved through the poem, the disturbance went deeper, culminating with the final paradox in the last two lines. Brava!
Wow–thank you so much, Liz! 😊
You’re welcome, Merril!