Poems That Celebrate the Noble Art of Showing Cattle

In the realm of poetry, the subject matter is as diverse as the human experience itself. From love and loss to nature and self-reflection, poets have explored countless themes through their verses. However, one topic that may not immediately come to mind is the world of cattle showing. Yet, this unique and fascinating aspect of agriculture has inspired poets to pen verses that encapsulate the beauty, dedication, and hard work that goes into showcasing these majestic animals. Join us as we explore a collection of poems that beautifully capture the spirit of showing cattle.

The Dance of Showmanship

Showmanship is an integral part of cattle showing, requiring exhibitors to display their animal's best qualities while maintaining poise and grace. This delicate dance between human and bovine has been the subject of many captivating poems. One such example is "In the Show Ring" by Maryann Corbett:

In the Show Ring

In the show ring, he dances
on a leash. He turns to me
for a lead, because he knows
I can’t help but love him.
He waits for me
to make a mistake.
He waits for me
to be a little afraid.

Corbett's poem beautifully captures the symbiotic relationship between exhibitor and animal, where trust, training, and a hint of vulnerability intertwine. It highlights the emotional connection formed between the two during the showmanship routine.

Beauty and Strength

Showing cattle not only requires impeccable showmanship skills but also emphasizes the animals' physical attributes. Poets have marveled at the sheer beauty and strength displayed by these animals, finding inspiration in their grace and powerful presence. One such poet is Wendell Berry, whose poem "The Herd" transports readers to the world of cattle showing:

The Herd

We stood on the hillslope under the moon,
he and I, and together we saw
the cattle, black as the night,
coming toward us, a wallowing herd.

In Berry's poem, the cattle's arrival becomes a captivating spectacle, their dark silhouettes against the moonlit sky creating a mesmerizing image of strength and unity. Through his words, Berry encapsulates the awe-inspiring nature of these magnificent creatures.

Reflections on Tradition

Cattle showing is deeply rooted in tradition, passing down knowledge and skills from one generation to the next. Poets often delve into the rich history and cultural significance attached to this agricultural practice. Mary Oliver's poem "The Herds" offers a thoughtful reflection on the ancestral ties that bind exhibitors to their animals:

The Herds

The herds, their lives, their deaths,
longer than the lives, the deaths,
of men. Longer than the deaths
and the lives of their countries.

Oliver's poignant lines remind us that behind every exhibitor and their cattle lies a tapestry of generations, a timeless connection to the land, and a legacy that stretches far beyond the show ring.

Poetry has an incredible ability to capture the essence of diverse subjects, even those that may seem unconventional at first glance. The world of cattle showing, with its intricate dance of showmanship, majestic beauty, and deep-rooted traditions, has inspired poets to craft verses that encapsulate the profound connection between humans and animals. Through the examples shared above, we hope you've gained a newfound appreciation for the artistry of showing cattle and the poetic expressions it has inspired.