"She Had Some Horses" By Joy Harjo

The strife of the Native American/American Indians seems to be the point of this poem. Yes, each "horse" is a different person. Each equine is another soul; some large, some small. But "she"? Who is "she"? I guess "she" would be the one we commonly refer to as "mother nature". However, I wish the rest of this piece focused slightly more on this aspect. After all, as the title suggests, it is "she" who had them. And "she" is a very large player is this game.
I understand (at least I think I understand) the loss and hardship these people had to endure due to dwindling tribes, and isolation, and so forth. I just wish there was more of a visible thread to follow here. Instead, the more I read on, the more I just felt a general sense of confusion and desparation. But maybe this is all I was supposed to............

The Mother by Gwendolyn Brooks

I wonder what would happen if this poem was read before the opening of any particular abortion debate. I wonder how the tone would change; perhaps a mutual respect would develop from what would otherwise be harsh arguments.
It's hard to imagine this piece as being directed at a 'reader' more than it is meant for Brooks herself. It is a strictly contemplative introspection. The only line which stands out despite this is the opener, a warning, "Abortions will not let you forget."
Regardless of where you stand on the 'issue', the facts presented here are true. While necessary for some, avoidable for others, or simply a choice which was made, this poem is a heartbreaking reminder that the choice is never simply Yes or No.