Summary

In the land of Jidada, citizens (all anthropomorphic animals) congregate at a rally for the long-serving president—known only as the Old Horse—in order to celebrate the anniversary of the country’s independence. Security forces (a group of dogs known as Defenders) surround the event. Despite the Old Horse’s long and tyrannical reign, the citizens excitedly await his arrival. The sun itself seems to be “[a] part of His Excellency’s cheerleading squad” (1). When their president appears, Jidadans notice that he looks distinctly “frail” (5). Dr. Sweet Mother, the Old Horse’s ambitious wife, accompanies the president. The Old Horse quickly falls asleep and dreams of Jidada’s “days of glory” (8), in which he fought to secure the country’s independence. Prophet Dr. O.G. Moses, a popular religious leader, gives a sycophantic speech claiming the president’s authority “[has] been established...