Chatter

In the ring, hogs circle, nudged along
by kids and hands with slender whips.
“Keep 'em straight!” echoes the command,
“They haven't earned it yet!” 

Under the night’s blanket, like a sounder in their pen,
A father hauls his crying son, silencing the sobs.
then carve paths in the dust, a ritual dance,
Nearby, a twosome spin, locked in a fierce embrace .

Through the evening, I see them, always in pairs—
Lovers, arguers, families entwined.
In the big hall, goats, hogs, cows echo this dance.
A quiet message surfaces, meant for the rest of us.