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A Horse and His Philosopher

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My poem is inspired by the legend of Nietzsche’s breakdown in Turin, which may or may not have happened as described.

This is my interpretation of Nietzsche's famous story of the horse. I imagined the thoughts and feelings of Nietzsche as he embraced the dying animal and compared him to his philosophical concepts of Dionysus, the Übermensch, and Zarathustra. My poem also suggests that Nietzsche’s compassion was both a sacrifice and a redemption, as he gave up his reason for a moment of sanity, he shortly after ...... went insane. After this event, he started to sign his letters "Dionysus," as he progressively got worse, he signed "The Crucified."

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He saw the noble beast collapse in blood and dirt, Lashed by the owner’s cruel and ruthless crop He rushed to cradle its head upon his stained coat, And wept with sorrow that choked his broken heart. He shared the pain of the majestic steed, He cursed the world, its deceits, and all its sin. He knew the truth was far beyond his reach, He felt his faith, belief & reason crumble within. For wasn’t he / the voice of the unfathomed deep - Questioning / God and all ancient morality. Dreaming / of will, and power, and ecstasy, - Sparking / and de-catechizing minds / with originality. But in that moment he was just a simple man Who loved a lamb more than his Übermensch. Who gave up his mind for one last act of sanity Who became a mythical hero despite his Mensch. The sacrificial lamb with a final breath doth whisper - ...“”Dionysus, The Crucified” - I am…your Zarathustra””

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Gary Radice

Date: 2/24/2024 12:56:00 PM

Hi Daniel. I knew a little bit about Friedrich Nietzsche's work prior to reading your work but now am inclined to find out more having read this. Great stuff! Having worked as a nurse dealing with brain injury for most of my life I am particularly interested in his possible cause of death. Changes in personality can be a symptom of brain trauma or tumour. He was so young when he died. Mid 50s. I'm off to search out 'Parable of a Madman' ..see what you've done now? :) Cheers - Gary

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 2/24/2024 4:46:00 PM

Hi Gary, Thank you so much for your thoughtful response to my poem. It’s fascinating how Nietzsche’s work can lead us down paths of curiosity and exploration, isn’t it? It’s intriguing to consider the potential connections between his philosophy and his own life experiences, especially regarding his untimely death. I appreciate your perspective as a nurse dealing with brain injury; it adds another layer to the discussion. Enjoy delving into “Parable of a Madman” – it’s quite the journey! Cheers to new discoveries and conversations sparked by literature. - Blessings, Daniel

Candide Diderot

Date: 1/26/2024 1:01:00 AM

Exceptional in-depth understanding of it all. This one, by far, out of all of yours I have read - the favourite.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 1/26/2024 4:33:00 AM

Good Morning, Candide, my new philosopher friend. I am glad you liked this one, for Nietzche is one of my favorite philosophers. I have written many poems about philosophy over the years and found that many people who are not minded in that direction struggle to understand. Now I have someone who may enjoy some of the ones I post in the future. I look forward to reading many of your poems. - Have a wonderful day! - Daniel

Kelli White

Date: 12/30/2023 6:07:00 PM

I love horses and your unbelievable spiritual exhale for a creature in pain, what a beautiful poem,kelli

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 1/4/2024 9:50:00 AM

Good Afternoon, Kelli. You are an animal lover just like me, and yes, horses are such amazing creatures full of spirit! - Blessings, Daniel!

Duke Beaufort

Date: 12/18/2023 7:42:00 AM

Yes, all of life is very hard to understand. What does it all really mean? I don't yet have the answer and don't expect to either, but it's fun to think about things like this. Thanks for bringing a bit of pleasure to my day.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 12/28/2023 7:21:00 AM

Thanks, Duke, I am very appreciative of your comments. I have been enjoying reading your poems! Blessings, Daniel

Lisa Ricci

Date: 10/23/2023 7:24:00 AM

Hello Daniel. You had me at the title because I love horses and could speak of them all day. Your entry and expressions are pure poetry and poetic. Please allow me to let your entry stand because there is nothing I could add to enhance your work. It was an honor turning to your page. Welcome to poetrysoup. Take Care (smile)

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 10/24/2023 4:28:00 AM

Hello Lisa, Thank you so much for reading and making such a wonderful comment. I also love horses and have worked on horse farms and was a trail boss for a while. Blessings, Daniel!

Susan Mills

Date: 10/9/2023 3:00:00 AM

Definitely has philosophical tones. Sounds like a piece at the level of a mythological course. Scholarly. I enjoyed reading it. Thank you! Makes me feel like a true poet.

Daniel Henry Rodgers
Date: 10/9/2023 4:33:00 AM

Thank you so much for your comments and insights, Susan. Have a great week!!