Bridle and martingale,
the crupper’s strap and buckle,

hobble and tassel binds
the mare to matter. Crack

of the crop’s split flap on a flank.
Push begged the animal,

Push begged the man
and the two sprang out,

half-moon of mud flung
from a hoof. Finger flick,

check bit, metal on the tongue
leather in the hand,

knee turn to saddle girdle,
girth gives a little, looser.

Speed is the animal
wish is the man—

Curve the neck, roll the eye
the jump is high

but will is all. Pull
strap, fit thigh

skin covers muscle,
matter is the mind.