In their stone arena two men circling
One another: the Evil Bandit’s a
A Renaissance Jesus, sharp blue
Eyes and perfect curls: facing him
Is the Bounty Hunting Vengeful
Brother, a Gentleman (decorated
civil war veteran) reduced to this.
Their boots creak like rope that’s neck stretching.
Their spurs chime like communion bells.
And only one will be walking away.
Meanwhile in a nearby arroyo
Geronimo (hasn’t moved for an hour at least)
Scans a small deer herd (rifle cocked)
Discounts the pregnant females, ignores
The half-grown bucks but now the old one
He’ll pray for (i’m sorry brother for taking
your life) steps into his sights: his shot echoes;
The herd scatters; now his children will eat.
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Kevin Patrick McCann
Illustration Nick Victor
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