rlist
Shohin
Personally, I'd like to know who wants you to remove that branch!
Stand and be counted. Aye! Cut thar branch off! (in due time of course, as a recent repotting tells us that you should leave it in full sun, fertilize and water like a mad man for the rest of the year and then mess with it next year)
Ok. First, I try to talk like a real pirate, but it never seems to happen. Second, I believe that the left/main/heavy branch should be removed. It will add a little direction, movement, taper and flair to this tree. I also think that once ramification can be obtained, in 2-5 years, there will be too much foliage with this branch and it will end up being removed anyway. Third, I have a similar style ponderosa and am going through the same thought process - and will probably do exactly as I recommend here, so I do have a dog in this fight. Finally, here is a tree that should be used as inspiration. Not the same, but the idea of an elegant literati trunk and a neat, compact and directional foliage pad does have merit. http://walter-pall.de/sylvestris1.htm
Edit: You posted a modified picture at IBC. It appears the bend was brought in and the foliage pad was raised. What is the current situation with the tree, and please stop messing with it!