Meaning: The quote "Now being upon the haunches (as he necessarily must be in this case) is it impossible but he must be light in hand, because no horse can be rightly upon his haunches without being so" is attributed to William Cavendish, a civil servant, and is related to the equestrian world. This quote refers to the balance and coordination required to achieve the proper riding technique with a horse.

In the context of horsemanship, the phrase "being upon the haunches" refers to the positioning of the horse's body. When a horse is "upon the haunches," it means that the majority of its weight is shifted towards the hindquarters, and the horse is engaged and carrying itself in a balanced and collected manner. This position is essential for achieving proper movement and performance, particularly in disciplines such as dressage and show jumping.

The quote emphasizes the interconnectedness of the horse's balance and responsiveness to the rider's cues. It suggests that when a horse is correctly positioned on its haunches, it will naturally be "light in hand," meaning it will be responsive and sensitive to the rider's rein aids. The hands of the rider play a crucial role in communicating with the horse through the reins, and a "light in hand" horse is one that is attentive and yielding to the rider's guidance.

William Cavendish's quote underscores the fundamental principle of harmony between horse and rider in achieving optimal performance. It highlights the importance of the horse's physical condition and balance, as well as the rider's skill in maintaining lightness and communication through the reins.

In the equestrian world, achieving lightness in hand and having the horse properly positioned on its haunches are considered hallmarks of skilled and effective riding. When a horse is light in hand, it shows that the rider has developed a soft and precise connection with the horse, allowing for subtle communication and control.

Furthermore, the concept of a horse being "upon his haunches" is closely linked to the idea of collection, which is the gathering of a horse's stride and energy, resulting in greater engagement of the hindquarters and a more elevated, balanced way of going. Collection is essential for advanced movements and jumping, as it allows the horse to carry more weight on its hindquarters and perform with agility and power.

The quote by William Cavendish reflects the timeless principles of classical horsemanship, where the partnership between horse and rider is based on balance, communication, and mutual understanding. It serves as a reminder of the foundational elements that contribute to the art of riding and the beauty of equine movement.

In summary, William Cavendish's quote encapsulates the significance of a horse being upon its haunches and the resulting lightness in hand. It underscores the essential connection between the horse's balance and responsiveness to the rider's cues, highlighting the artistry and skill involved in achieving harmony between horse and rider. This quote resonates with equestrians as a timeless reminder of the fundamental principles of horsemanship and the pursuit of excellence in riding and training horses.