We were Wild Once

By Andrew R. Duckworth

Horses roaming the prairies,
Hooves hitting the grass,
Trampling through trails,
Neighing loudly, no saddles.

We were wild once, I imagine,
Moving from place to place
In search of this and that,
Though not with as much grace.

But strapped saddles on our backs,
Herded ourselves through the gates,
And we stood still because the kings
Brought us scraps to eat.

And that is what we get,
What we deserve for settling.