Laurie Kolp threw down a semi-musical challenge on Imaginary Garden with Real Toads http://withrealtoads.blogspot.com/. She wanted an eight-line (octave) poem, written in one minute, using the musical word prompt of “allegro” (briskly).
I cannot tell a lie. I only got a rough draft within the minute time limit. It probably took another two or three to edit it. Believe me; it took much longer to find a photo to fit the poem.
TAKE YOUR MOUNTS
By Mike Patrick
Flickr image by Jan&Ted
Across the arena they ride,
allegro tempos from their horses’ hooves,
hushed within the softened ground.
The flags they carry show their pride
in their country and their skill.
Their western hats and clothing
add to the timeless pageantry.
It’s time for rodeo.
The Poet's Quill 
And you managed to sneak in a galloping rhythm… Very cool.
Yeah, well, that probably happened in the editing process.
Ahh… I can hear the horses now. I was just looking through some rodeo pics earlier.
Thanks for participating, Mike.
I love rodeo. Sandy and I, along with a grandson, watched the rodeo in Cody, Wyoming, two years ago. It was Sandy and my grandson’s first rodeo, but I’ve been to a lot of them.
Short on time, perhaps, but not on how well written the piece. I’ve never been to a rodeo. Sounds like lots of excitement and a good time.
I’d love to see a rodeo one day. I really like your accompanying picture – so proud.
I’ve never seen a rodeo, so it was a delight to read such an exciting poem in response to a great prompt. I hadn’t seen that, so must have a go.
You’ve captured the glory of the rodeo cowboy. I had a few friends who were barrel racers when I was a kid, and we whooped it up at the rodeo every August at The Last Chance Stampede and Fair in Helena, Montana, my hometown. Thank you for bringing me back, Mike. I really enjoyed the read.
My sister once dated a guy who rode bulls, and we hung out on the fringe of the rodeo. We had horses on the farm and used to barrel race for fun, but never did it in competition. Our horses would not have stood a chance against the purebred quarter horses.
Rodeos — one of the “positives” of living in Texas. I just don’t go often enough! I should change that. Thanks for the lovely reminder! 🙂
Here’s my allegro…which I did do in under a minute start to finish. …and it probably shows.
Great atmospheric response to a very challenging prompt.
This was fun with a great beat to match the topic
Great rhythm, enjoyed the poem 🙂
Cool response to the prompt.