Collections of Essays & Poetry

I write a good bit of cowboy poetry and what might be called “agrarian poetry” because I just like it. It is an authentic art form of the Western US. It has emerged spontaneously from people who work outdoors raising food and fiber. It celebrates that work and helps others to learn more about the rural West and its traditions. It is the kind of verse that comes from an opportunity to observe land, livestock, wildlife, weather, interesting characters and the work itself over time. It often does so by telling a story and sometimes uses more traditional forms of poetry and song. I think that is needed in this era of digital soundbites and text messages. It is seldom political or divisive in nature and not as focused on oneself as much as a lot of contemporary poetry. I also like that it is often recited - like stories are told  rather than read. It reflects an enjoyable part of my life and by the way, is shared by pastoral cultures in many countries.

These books from Wolverine Farm Publishing can be ordered online or found at Wolverine Farm Publick House, 316 Willow Street, and also at Old Firehouse Books, 232 Walnut St.—both in the Old Town Area of Fort Collins, CO.

They will also be available at the Western Folklife Center during and after the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering where I am an invited artist for the February 2024 Gathering.