"So what of this horse, then, that actually held opinions, and was sceptical about things? Unusual behaviour for a horse, wasn't it? An unusual horse, perhaps?
No. Although it was certainly a handsome and well-built example of its species, it was none the less a perfectly ordinary horse, such as convergent evolution has produced in many of the places that life is to be found. They have always understood a great deal more than they let on. It is difficult to be sat on all day, every day, by some other creature, without forming an opinion about them.
On the other hand, it is perfectly possible to sit all day, every day, on top of another creature and not have the slightest thought about them whatsoever.
Douglas Adams (Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency)
***
Today I was sitting in the back yard, babying my sprained ankle by keeping my foot up on a chair, reading the above-mentioned book and when I came upon this bit about the horse, it brought to mind the picture I took of one of New York's Finest looking slightly distracted while sitting atop a fine steed who appeared camera shy. They were watching the stream of humanity gushing through Times Square and I snapped this as I floated by.
Glad Doug's keeping you company.
ReplyDeleteYes. Where has he been all my life?! I love drifting off with him, curled up on the sofa or tucked up in bed.
ReplyDeleteSometimes I think that due to the horse's ancient ancestry it must be happier in a meadow than on a street bearing a saddle and rider.
ReplyDeleteBut then I wonder if it is being cared for and well treated in the urban environment, does it really care.
My ancestry might suggest that I should not be confined to working in a brick building in a city and travelling using an internal combustion enegine. But would I be happier running across the savanna trying to avoid being bopped on the head by some other primate?
I doubt it.
Great action shot, Lynne... there doesn't seem to be a lot going on here, but blown up, there is much to read in that policeman's face and posture. I could make a short story out of it, but won't reveal the plot here out of concern that some psychologist would read it, apply the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), and have me involuntarily institutionalized.
ReplyDeleteNot so bad having a sprain when you can prop it up and read a great book! I know, I know... "You're not the one with a sprain, David"
I also know you're not really saying that.. ;)
Dear Fart, Seems that all living creatures learn to adapt (or perish) and try to make the most of whatever environment in which they find themselves. "Bloom where you're planted." Although we humans supposedly have the power of choice which gives us an evolutionary "leg up," esp. over horses.
ReplyDeleteThe image of you dashing across a savanna in a loin cloth has done much to brighten my day!
David, I'm glad you noticed the expression on the cop's face. Personally, I think he really need the use of a washroom.
ReplyDelete(I wonder what other words you're putting in my mouth! tee hee)