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Where Once They Rode

Their sadness sounds from distant hills,
Drums speaking strength, valor not lost
Calling warriors to give might and will
Victories now but at what cost.

Now drums guide dancers' whirling feet
Their sadness sounds from distant hills
Warriors' hearts feel a quiet defeat
Memories of greatness~silenced, still.

Lilting birds' calls, flute answers trills
Music caught in enchantment's lures
Their sadness sounds from distant hills
Voices of flute, lonesome and pure.

Over vast land they hunted game
Days now lost of conquests and skills
Spirits sigh for those times untamed
Their sadness sounds from distant hills.

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Vijay Pandit

Date: 12/22/2021 6:11:00 AM

Brilliant write in this not easy to execute form. Much enjoyed the essence of your poem, Ann. Wonderful rhythm throughout---and your repeating line resounds with your message.

Ann Peck
Date: 12/22/2021 9:14:00 AM

Thanks so much, Vijay. It's a poem I've wanted to write for a long time. These people were subjects of most of my paintings. Still proud people but rejected by most of us. Happy Holidays!

Susan Lawrence

Date: 12/21/2021 4:01:00 PM

Just beautiful Ann ! I love their sadness sounds from distant hills . I had a visceral response when reading this and was taken back in space and time to the moments you poignantly created . Blessings and happy holidays. Susan :)

Ann Peck
Date: 12/22/2021 9:06:00 AM

Thank you, Susan, for feeling my poetry. Your poetry tugs at my heart. Such a sad song these people now sing. Thanks for the visit :) Happy Holidays!

L Milton Hankins

Date: 12/21/2021 3:07:00 PM

A marvelous quatern, Ann. I thoroughly enjoyed it. More! More!

Ann Peck
Date: 12/24/2021 11:32:00 AM

Thanks, Milton. I'm gradually learning some of the poetry forms. I had no idea! I appreciate your thoughtful words.