Duncan Richardson
Featured image ©David e. Bell
Next time my son
when the snows melt
and the raiders come
on their ragged mounts
we’ll be ready.
Now you must learn
what my father taught me.
Here, take the weapon
watch well and listen.
Imagine your bow is a falcon.
Clasp it firmly in the middle
where the body lies
place the arrow so
forming neck and beak
of the proud bird.
Rest the arrow notch
a neat talon
against the string
and holding the arrows tendons
draw back the wings
ready for flight
steady
let the claws reach for your chest
still every fibre
even breath
hold then loose the fiery hunter
feathers whistling
seeking
striking
there.