16.10: dVerse Headless

headless horseman on his black horse riding through the forest at night

A Steed’s Lament in Sleepy Hollow

They call me omen, call me curse,
a shadow-mare to haul the headless hearse.
He grips my flanks with knees of bone,
and rides me through the mourner’s moan.

I toss my mane — he cannot see.
I choose the path — what use is he?
I’ve borne the weight of sin and dread,
but never once a kind word said.

So let the living shriek and flee,
it’s just a job — he’s dead, you see.
No glory here, no thanks, no reign,
just endless night — in driving rain.


written for dVerse Poetics “The Headless Horseman” Imagery and poems/prose ©Misky 2006-2025.

14 responses to “16.10: dVerse Headless”

  1. Now you made me feel sorrow for that poor horse….

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  2. I loved this from the horse’s perspective! Poor horse.

    (I didn’t know that SNL sketch–was not expecting that!)

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    1. Glad you enjoyed the poem, even if the video was a little ‘unexpected’. It was either that or Bing Crosby. SNL won.

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      1. You’re welcome! 😊

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  3. The horse has her say! (I say her as it is a mare) Good perspective- he’d be nothing without her, far less effective.

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    1. I am so pleased that you enjoyed this different perspective! Thank you.

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    1. (smiling) Thank you so much!

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  4. Interesting perspective – the horse too is destined to roam the nights.

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  5. Stunning work done, Misky! I love that you chose to share the horse’s perspective ❤️❤️

    Liked by 1 person

    1. My absolute pleasure.

      Like

  6. Great idea to come at this prompt. Well done! 👏

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Your comments are always welcome