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This Poem was Submitted By: Kay C Steward On Date: 2012-01-09 09:22:12 . . . Click Here To Mail this Poem to a Friend!

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The Pit Pony

I watched her standing there Head hung low, full of despair How did she come to this? Once a pretty little miss. Blinded by sunlight Skittery with fright Approaching her slowly She couldn't be more lowly. Only a dollar, the auctioneer said She'll pull yer' plough over land Sound of wind and limb, beautiful head. I bought an old black mare today She's down by the miner's shack Soot covered face, tattered mane, tunnel-scarred coat of black What have they done to you? I mused as I led her away. Ensuing months of love and care Neighbors stopped by to stare Once a pit pony lashed to a dray She canters around, loves to play. Shiny black coat, streaming tail Ferries my boys, learning to ride Her new foal trots at her side Destiny turned the tide.

Additional Notes:
Pit ponies were used in the mines because they were small and could haul heavy loads. The pony never saw day light, they were brought up at the end of the shift, fed and watered, they had no life. This cruel practice was rife in the 18 century. I have a deep love for animals especially horses. This poem is fiction based on fact. Posted on Fanstory.

This Poem was Critiqued By: Dellena Rovito On Date: 2012-02-03 18:47:02
Critiquer Rating During Critique: 10.00000
Kay, a beautiful story. A wonder filled pony. Man's inhumanity to man is horror. And if they don't care for man, where does that leave our beast? Nowhere..... and our children? And everything else of beautiful and goodness. your poem helps fill a bit of the void. We as a people need flogging. A great write, I think. Full of heart! dellena

This Poem was Critiqued By: Lora Silvey On Date: 2012-01-13 17:12:31
Critiquer Rating During Critique: 10.00000
Kay, Exquisite in descriptive verbiage, easy flow and story-line. You capture your reader right off and don't let go till the very last verse. A most enjoyable read from your accomplished pen. Lora

This Poem was Critiqued By: DeniMari Z. On Date: 2012-01-13 09:10:28
Critiquer Rating During Critique: 10.00000
I have to say I am enlightened in to the topic of Pit ponies is this write. It's unfamiliar territory for me - as I have little knowledge of coal mines in general but through your words that give depth along with the note you provided I can appreciate this write. You have a great rhyme scheme in this and well placed imagery along with the story of what transpired - There is depth far beyond what is written for the reader without much left to imagine which works in this piece - It's a depiction or a view of what is seen through you and you have cleverly put it all together. Good job Kay - I imagine you took your time to complete this poem and it is well worth the read. blessings, Deni

This Poem was Critiqued By: Kimberly D Rowe-Van Allen On Date: 2012-01-10 00:51:44
Critiquer Rating During Critique: 10.00000
Kay, Love this piece...I was able to see the pony and almost feel what was happening. You told the story well, and I love the last part about Destiny turning the tide - just makes me think that so many good things (and unfortunately many bad things) happen or don't happen just by pure chance. Thanks for sharing. Kim

This Poem was Critiqued By: cheyenne smyth On Date: 2012-01-09 18:14:10
Critiquer Rating During Critique: 1.00000
Hi Kace, I love this poem as I am fond of horses too and felt awful when we had to sell ours. You have chosen expressive words that tells this story with wonderment. I really thought it were true until I read your note. You have a lyrical rhyme and alliteration within the lines. Making this poem a pleassure to read. Bravo! Best wishes, cheyenne

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