by Rochelle Ratner
It used to be just as the song said--long, lonely nights, raging bulls, lingering bruises. And when he was new on the circuit he got used to that. But the last few years, he's brought his family with him in the truck. Now he rides with four other men. Even to fly is cheaper. Fifth in the circuit, and still his winnings just cover expenses. So he drinks a bit too much, saddles up Hendrik, rides straight on in to half a dozen pubs, requests one last shot of gin, straight, and an apple. Or a sugar cube.
Rochelle Ratner's latest poetry books include Leads (Otoliths Press, 2007), Balancing Acts (Marsh Hawk Press, 2006), Beggars at the Wall (Ikon, 2006) and House and Home (Marsh Hawk Press, 2003). She is the author of fifteen previous poetry collections and two novels (Bobby’s Girl and The Lion’s Share) both published by Coffee House Press). More information and links to her writing on the Internet can be found on her homepage.