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HERDMASTER

Poke and prod
with cane and rod
use a whip if you must

Move those unsuspecting cattle
from pasture to pasture
trade one confinement for another

Keep the grass just green enough
to keep them happy
(a bit of sweet feed now and then to keep them docile)

They're too dumb to know the score
too placid to ask for more
not happy........not sad
they think themselves content

Drive them down the chute
open a gate (to them it's a choice)
look down on the lowly herd
going where they are directed
on their way to that booth
to vote

Style / type: 
Free verse
Review Request (Intensity): 
I want the raw truth, feel free to knock me on my back
Review Request (Direction): 
What did you think of my title?
How was my language use?
What did you think of the rhythm or pattern or pacing?
How does this theme appeal to you?
How was the beginning/ending of the poem?
Last few words: 
realized it had been a while since I'd trod the unfamiliar free verse path
Editing stage: 

Comments

If this poem doesn't have dual meanings, I am out of my mind. I was very surprised by the ending lines:

on their way to that booth
to vote

You have inspired much unrest and thought in me with this piece. (which is a good thing)

as usual, your structure is great and your content interesting.
I have no suggestions for the work, just appreciation.

always, Cat

*
When someone reads your work
And responds, please be courteous
And reply in kind, thanks.

Was watching the news the other night and it struck me how the media and all try to push us toward the "correct" candidate as if we are all cattle. Sorry about making you think and hope it doesn't result in a headache lol......stan

author comment

... is what it is! A lesson taught to children in a playful way. Will we learn? Of course not, but that's beside the point. A very "cool" poem. Put this in your book.
wesley

W. H. Snow

A poet is a nightingale, who sits in darkness and sings to cheer its own solitude with sweet sounds. Percy Bysshe Shelley

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It Might be about right for a future book titled "not ready for prime time poetry" lol........stan

author comment
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