Sunday, December 11, 2011

Gripping

hunter, motionless, in position
at edge of spacious field
remains behind poplars for cover

rare opening day has elements
for perfection; no breeze
little sun, good cloud cover
kind of day the deer show up

with practised ease,
rapid precision, noiselessly
he slips one shot into chamber
releases the safety
cuffs pocket nearest rifle’s grip
checking more ammo tumbling
at the ready

simultaneously he holds
scope on deer
across the field
cross-hairs on glass
show doe’s blood throbbing
with every pulsation
in her neck

right now he feels like God
he’s almost weightless
deer’s life is in his hands
he knows he’s good enough
to bring her down
trophies on wall at home
attest to that

but lately – and this
is becoming puzzling
no – more than that –
a troubling enigma
does he want to?

does he want to
deliver the shot
that causes the
death-spasm
to another animal?

lately he’s been
indecisive
lately he finds
he enjoys feeling
like God
more and more

he lowers his gun
half-watches the doe
bound off
wonders if
he’s losing his grip

S.E.Ingraham©
inspired by Sunday Whirl Wordle 34


7 comments:

  1. Sharon, caught your comments at the Whirl and used your link.

    This was fascinating - from the visceral act of hunting itself (I don't, but understand it, as long as the whole animal is used and honored), to the second thoughts which are so wonderful. The final question is the one every ex-hunter ponders, and you really nailed it.

    Great use of the Wordle! Peace, Amy
    http://sharplittlepencil.wordpress.com/2011/12/12/impromptu-for-marques/

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  2. Sharon- A great capture of the conflict I'm sure some hunters must have.

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  3. Wonderful poem, Sharon. Great exploration of your theme and use of the wordle.

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  4. Thanks Amy, Laurie and Traci - I had a bit of fun with this; I don't hunt but I do like to shoot oddly enough, and the existential question is one that I hope crosses most hunters minds from time to time ... I'm with you Amy as far as understanding that type of hunting (whole animal usage etc., not my cup of tea but I'm alright with it mostly) - thanks again for reading and commenting.

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  5. A different take on the words tell a rich story.

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  6. Thank you Cheryl and Gautami for both reading and commenting ...

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