Tag: Cowboy Poetry

Discover Cowboy Poetry by slam poets, cowboy poets, and literary giants inspired by the state of Arizona on AZpoetry.com!

The Vegetarian’s Nightmare poem by Baxter Black

May 27, 2025

“The Vegetarian’s Nightmare” a cowboy poem by Baxter Black

parsley power ladies and diner and make
you a shameful degrading confession a
deed of disgrace in the name of good
taste though I did it I meant no
aggression I had planted a garden last
April and lovingly sang it to Ballad but
later in June beneath the full moon
forgive me I wanted to salad so I I
slipped out and fondled a carrot
caressing its feather at all but the
first of a brute died power out the root
and the competent came with a pup and
laying my hand on a radish a jerk and it
left a small crater then with the blade
of my true value spade I exhumed a
slumbering Taylor
seller had pucked I twisted the squash
tomatoes were wincing in fear I choked
the romaine screamed out in pain their
anguish was filling my ears I finally
came to the latest as it cringed at the
top of the road with one wicked slice
there beheaded to twice as it rise I
dealt a death blow i butchered the
onions and parsley so my whole was all
covered with gore I chopped and I walked
without looking back then I stealthily
slipped in the door my bounty lay naked
dying so I drowned them to snuff out
their life I sliced and I peeled as they
thrashed and they reeled on the cutting
board under my knife I violated Tomatoes
so their innards could never survive I
grated and grounded they made not a
sound then I thought of the Tator alive
and then I took the small broken pieces
and tortured and killed with my hands
and touched them together heedless of
whether they suffered or made their
demands I ate them forgive me I’m sorry
but hear me no I’m a beginner of those
plants feel pain so it’s hard to explain
to someone who eats them for dinner and
tend to begin a crusade for plants
rights including chickpeas and the ACLU
will be helping me too in the meantime
please pass the blue cheese

Transcribed from “A Vegetarian’s Nightmare” by OddballVQ on YouTube.

Watch “The Vegetarian’s Nightmare” performed by the cowboy poet Baxter Black on YouTube.

About the poet Baxter Black

A Cowboy’s Darkly Hilarious Ode to Salad Suffering

In A Vegetarian’s Nightmare, legendary cowboy poet Baxter Black delivers a gut-busting, rhyme-heavy monologue that flips the ethical script on vegetarianism. This satirical performance poem opens as a self-confession, revealing the narrator’s horrifying crimes—against vegetables. What follows is a mock-epic of culinary violence, complete with carrots “fondled,” radishes “jerked,” lettuce that “screamed out in pain,” and romaine “beheaded” under moonlight.

With classic cowboy flair, Black uses elevated poetic diction mixed with gritty humor to describe the emotional and physical trauma inflicted upon his unsuspecting garden. His knife is no kitchen utensil—it’s a weapon of mass destruction. Through personification, vivid imagery, and his signature Western cadence, he paints the harvest as a battlefield. Tomatoes are violated, onions butchered, and potatoes tortured until they meet their end—only to be drowned in blue cheese.

Satire with a Sharp Edge

Black’s poem works brilliantly as a parody, skewering the moral high ground often claimed by vegetarians. Rather than arguing logically, he humorously leans into absurdity: if plants can feel pain, then aren’t vegetarians just as guilty of violence as meat eaters?

The poem plays with the reader’s expectations, starting off sounding like a sincere ethical admission, but quickly descending into over-the-top (yet skillfully rhymed) carnage. Black’s message isn’t to launch an actual crusade for “plant rights,” but rather to poke fun at the hypocrisy or blind spots in moral dietary choices. It’s an exaggerated cowboy logic: if you’re going to kill to eat, might as well own it.

Performance Roots and Cowboy Poetics

Like many of Baxter Black’s works, A Vegetarian’s Nightmare is best experienced aloud. The poem thrives on rhythm, timing, and dramatic delivery—a natural fit for Black’s background in performance poetry and radio. His voice—equal parts campfire storyteller and satirical commentator—makes the gruesome humor land with levity, not malice.

It also exemplifies a classic hallmark of cowboy poetry: transforming everyday ranching life (or in this case, eating salad) into a mythic, moral, and often hilarious tale. Black’s poem, while playful, also asks us to reconsider our assumptions with a wink and a laugh.

Discover More About Cowboy Poet Baxter Black

“A Vegetarian’s Nightmare” is just one example of Baxter Black’s unforgettable ability to mix wit, Western wisdom, and poetic technique. To learn more about the life, legacy, and literary contributions of this iconic Arizona cowboy poet, visit his full biography on AZpoetry.com.

Ridin’ by Badger Clark

April 11, 2025

“Ridin'” by Badger Clark

There is some that like the city—
    Grass that’s curried smooth and green,
Theaytres and stranglin’ collars,
    Wagons run by gasoline—
But for me it’s hawse and saddle
    Every day without a change,
And a desert sun a-blazin’
    On a hundred miles of range.

    Just a-ridin’, a-ridin’—
        Desert ripplin’ in the sun,
    Mountains blue among the skyline—
        I don’t envy anyone
            When I’m ridin’.

When my feet is in the stirrups
   And my hawse is on the bust,
With his hoofs a-flashin’ lightnin’
   From a cloud of golden dust,
And the bawlin’ of the cattle
   Is a-comin’ down the wind
Then a finer life than ridin’
   Would be mighty hard to find.

    Just a-ridin’, a-ridin’—
        Splittin’ long cracks through the
            air,
    Stirrin’ up a baby cyclone,
        Rippin’ up the prickly pear
            As I’m ridin’.

I don’t need no art exhibits
    When the sunset does her best,
Paintin’ everlastin’ glory
    On the mountains to the west
And your opery looks foolish
    When the night-bird starts his tune
And the desert’s silver mounted
    By the touches of the moon.

    Just a-ridin’, a-ridin’—
        Who kin envy kings and czars
    When the coyotes down the valley
        Are a singin’ to the stars,
            If he’s ridin’?

When my earthly trail is ended
    And my final bacon curled
And the last great roundup’s finished
    At the Home Ranch of the world
I don’t want no harps nor haloes
    Robes nor other dressed up things—
Let me ride the starry ranges
    On a pinto hawse with wings!

    Just a-ridin’, a-ridin’—
        Nothin’ I’d like half so well
    As a-roundin’ up the sinners
        That have wandered out of Hell,
            And a-ridin’

About the poet Badger Clark

Summary and Analysis of “Ridin’” by Badger Clark (1922)

Badger Clark’s iconic poem “Ridin’,” first published in 1922, is a quintessential piece of American cowboy poetry that celebrates the untamed beauty of the West and the profound sense of freedom found in a life spent on horseback. Known for his vivid imagery and rhythmic lyricism, Clark paints a portrait of a cowboy’s existence—marked by wide-open landscapes, blazing sun, and the unshakable joy of “just a-ridin’.”

A Tribute to the Cowboy Life

The poem contrasts two ways of life: the modern, urban environment filled with “theaytres,” “wagons run by gasoline,” and “grass that’s curried smooth and green,” versus the raw, natural life of a cowboy. Clark rejects the luxuries and constraints of city life in favor of the harsh yet freeing reality of the range, where the sun scorches the horizon and one’s world stretches “a hundred miles” wide.

The repeated refrain—“Just a-ridin’, a-ridin’”—becomes a musical echo throughout the poem, reinforcing the spiritual simplicity and joy that comes from this nomadic lifestyle.

Wild Beauty and Rugged Romance

Each stanza highlights the elements of cowboy life that make it so appealing: the thrill of galloping across desert terrain, the natural artistry of a sunset, and the haunting songs of coyotes in the valley. Clark makes a compelling case for the cowboy as both adventurer and artist—one who finds meaning not in galleries or opera houses, but in the ever-shifting canvas of the sky and land.

The poem pulses with movement: horses “on the bust,” “hoofs a-flashin’ lightnin’,” and “long cracks through the air.” It’s kinetic, full of dust and thunder, but never chaotic. The landscape isn’t a backdrop—it’s a participant in the cowboy’s journey.

Spiritual Frontier

In the final stanza, Clark leans into the metaphysical, imagining his afterlife not with harps and halos, but with a “pinto hawse with wings” riding across “the starry ranges.” Even in eternity, the poet’s heaven is a wide-open range—where he can “round up sinners” with the same fierce joy he rode with on earth.

This blend of cowboy grit and spiritual longing places “Ridin’” in the tradition of American transcendental poetry, akin to Whitman’s celebration of the self and nature. But where Whitman wandered the forests, Clark’s domain is the high desert and the open plains.

A Lasting Voice of the West

“Ridin’” remains a definitive cowboy poem because it captures the soul of Western life—rugged, free, and unbound by convention. Its charm lies in both its musicality and its reverence for a vanishing way of life. In an era that was already becoming more industrial and urban, Badger Clark reminded readers that there’s still magic in a lone rider under a big sky.

Want to learn more about the poet who gave voice to the Western range?
Visit Badger Clark’s poet bio page on AZPoetry.com and explore his legacy as one of America’s original cowboy poets.

Bob Frost

April 11, 2025

Scottsdale’s First Official Poet Laureate and Cowboy Wordsmith

From Marine Corps to Master of Metaphor

Born to share a name with one of the most celebrated poets in American history, Bob Frost of Scottsdale, Arizona, found his own poetic path through life’s winding roads. His journey into poetry began with a high school English assignment, and over the years, his pen never stopped moving. Even during his time in the U.S. Marine Corps and throughout a successful professional career, Frost continued to write verse—capturing his experiences, observations, and reflections on life in rhythmic form.

After retiring in 1997, Frost revisited the growing collection of poetry he had amassed over decades. That decision culminated in the release of his debut book, A Sweet Place to Play, marking the start of his public journey as a poet.

A Cowboy Poet in the West’s Most Western Town

Frost’s poetic voice deepened after joining the Verde Vaqueros, a charitable riding group supporting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale. Inspired by the traditions of the American West, Frost began writing cowboy poetry—an art form rich in humor, grit, and heart. One of his poems won a cowboy poetry contest in Tombstone, Arizona, prompting the publication of his second book, Cowboy Poems about the Old West and New, in 2009.

Noticing that Scottsdale—branded “The West’s Most Western Town”—lacked an official cowboy poet, Frost approached then-Mayor Jim Lane with a proposal: to become the city’s poet laureate. Though the initial request didn’t yield an immediate response, Frost continued to build bridges with Scottsdale’s cultural community by reading poetry at city council meetings and public events.

After reading his poem A Cowboy’s Lament at a memorial for Councilman Tony Nelssen, the mayor responded. In that moment, Bob Frost officially became Scottsdale’s first poet laureate, a position he would hold with distinction for more than a decade.

Championing Poetry in the Community

During his 11-year tenure, Bob Frost made it his mission to bring poetry into everyday life in Scottsdale. He worked closely with the Scottsdale Center for the Arts and Scottsdale Public Library to organize workshops, literary events, and public readings. He also hosted several episodes of a poetry-themed show on Scottsdale’s municipal television channel, broadening his reach to residents throughout the valley.

One of his most beloved contributions was the Poetry Hike, held in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve. Participants hiked scenic desert trails, pausing every few hundred feet to share and reflect on poetry—blending physical activity with literary appreciation in a uniquely Arizonan fashion.

Frost was not just a poet but a facilitator of creative dialogue. He encouraged readers and writers of all ages to engage with poetry, leading by example with his generous spirit and relatable storytelling.

Poet Laureate Emeritus

In 2024, Frost stepped down from the role of Scottsdale Poet Laureate, passing the torch to the next voice in the city’s growing poetry legacy. He was honored with the title Poet Laureate Emeritus and invited to serve on the selection committee for the city’s new laureate.

Though no longer the official voice of poetry for Scottsdale, Frost continues to inspire through his published works, community involvement, and dedication to keeping the spirit of the West alive in verse.

The Mesa Wind Blows Soft Colorado Pete poetry artwork AZpoetry.com

The Mesa Wind Blows Soft by Colorado Pete

April 6, 2025

“The Mesa Wind Blows Soft” by Colorado Pete

The Mesa wind blows soft tonight,
The western stars bend low,
Self-shadowed in the firelight
Old dreams, old visions go.

The mesa wind’s a soft caress,
Cool fingers in my hair;
Soft whispers out of lonliness
That breath a lonely prayer…

O mesa wind go far to her
With kisses carried high,
And tell her mountain grasses stir
And ‘wait her passing by;

Go tell her that the mesa trail
Lies yellow in the sun,
And clouds, like dreams, ride white and frail—
Lost longings, one by one.

Summary and Analysis of “The Mesa Wind Blows Soft” by Colorado Pete (1924)

Originally published in The Chicago Tribune in 1924, “The Mesa Wind Blows Soft” by Colorado Pete (the pen name of Arthur Owen Peterson) is a quietly haunting frontier poem rich with longing, landscape, and lyrical intimacy. Written during his years of treatment for tuberculosis in the Southwest, the poem evokes the stark beauty of Arizona’s mesas while exploring themes of solitude, memory, and unfulfilled love.

The poem opens with a soft, almost reverent tone:

The Mesa wind blows soft tonight, / The western stars bend low,
Here, the natural world sets a hushed and mystical backdrop. The “mesa wind” becomes both a gentle presence and a messenger, while the “western stars” bending low suggest an almost sacred stillness, as if nature itself is leaning in to listen to old dreams unravel in the flickering firelight.

In the second stanza, the wind becomes more personal—“cool fingers” and “soft whispers” suggest a human tenderness projected onto the desert wind, as the speaker’s loneliness shapes how he interacts with the world. The wind, like the speaker, “breathes a lonely prayer,” suggesting that the environment shares his sorrow and desire for connection.

The third stanza becomes more direct and emotional. The speaker sends the wind as a courier of love:

O mesa wind go far to her / With kisses carried high,
He asks the wind to tell a distant woman that nature itself—mountain grasses and desert trails—longs for her presence. This use of personification blurs the line between the inner landscape of the speaker and the outer landscape of Arizona. The environment becomes a vessel for emotion.

Finally, the closing stanza solidifies this fusion of love and place:

And clouds, like dreams, ride white and frail— / Lost longings, one by one.
Dreams and clouds drift across the vastness of the mesa, fragile and fleeting. Each cloud carries a lost hope, suggesting the passage of time, impermanence, and the pain of separation. Yet there is still beauty in the longing itself.

A Poem Rooted in Arizona’s Landscape and Spirit

“The Mesa Wind Blows Soft” is a quintessential example of Colorado Pete’s ability to blend personal emotion with the physical features of the American Southwest. Written during his time at the Veterans’ Hospital in Whipple, Arizona, where he was being treated for complications from tuberculosis, this poem reflects both the stillness and grandeur of the Arizona desert and the interior solitude of its speaker.

With its gentle rhythm, vivid imagery, and emotional subtlety, this poem is both a love letter to the land and a quiet elegy for connection lost or never fully realized. The mesa wind may be soft, but its message carries far.

➡️ Learn more about Colorado Pete and his poetry on his poet bio page.

Colorado Pete

April 5, 2025

Early Life and Service

Arthur Owen Peterson, better known by his pen name Colorado Pete, was born on July 23, 1896, in Fosston, Minnesota. The son of Norwegian immigrants, Peterson grew up in Bagley, where his family ran a hardware store on Main Street. He was a gifted student and graduated from Bagley High School at age sixteen before attending Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota.

In 1918, he enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War I and was deployed to France as a sergeant in the Fifty-Fourth Coast Artillery Corps. After the war, he returned home suffering from amoebic dysentery—an illness common among soldiers—that would eventually lead to long-term complications, including tuberculosis.

A Poet in the Desert

Peterson’s connection to Arizona began in the 1920s when his health necessitated long-term care in dry climates. He spent the winter of 1924–25 at the Whipple Veterans Hospital in Prescott, Arizona, a pivotal location in both his life and literary career. Surrounded by red rocks, desert skies, and the quiet solitude of recovery, Peterson began writing poetry under the pseudonym Colorado Pete. These poems captured not only his sharp wit but also the stark beauty and resilient spirit of the American Southwest.

Published in the Chicago Tribune

From his hospital bed, Colorado Pete’s words traveled far. Between 1923 and 1932, 111 of his poems were published in the Chicago Tribune, gaining a readership of over 700,000 at its peak. His debut poem, “The Dentist Intervenes,” appeared in September 1923 and marked the beginning of a prolific publishing journey. Though his work often carried a humorous tone, it also reflected deeper truths about life, nature, illness, and survival in the face of adversity.

Legacy in Arizona and Beyond

While his roots were in Minnesota, it was Arizona that helped shape Colorado Pete’s poetic legacy. His time in Prescott infused his poetry with a Southwestern sensibility—vivid landscapes, frontier wit, and moments of contemplative solitude. Despite his chronic illness, he continued to write until his final hospitalization at Fort Snelling, where he passed away on February 15, 1932, at the age of 35.

Upon his death, the Chicago Tribune honored him by writing, “Most of you … knew him only through his beautiful poems in the Line; but to those who knew Arthur Owen Peterson personally, he was, more even than a fine poet, a brave and gallant lad.”

Remembering Colorado Pete

Today, Colorado Pete stands as a voice of a generation touched by war and healed by the desert. His poems live on as a testament to the enduring power of humor, hope, and the transformative landscape of Arizona. AZPoetry.com proudly remembers him as one of Arizona’s early poetic voices whose work continues to echo through time.

The Dude Wrangler by Gail Gardner

April 2, 2025

“The Dude Wrangler” by Gail Gardner

I’ll tell you of a sad, sad story,
Of how a cowboy fell from grace,
Now really this is something awful,
There never was so sad a case.

One time I had myself a pardner,
I never knowed one half so good;
We throwed our outfits in together,
And lived the way that cowboys should.

He savvied all about wild cattle,
And he was handy with a rope,
For a gentle, well-reined pony,
Just give me one that he had broke.

He never owned no clothes but Levis,
He wore them until they was slick,
And he never wore no great big Stetson,
‘Cause where we rode the brush was thick.

He never had no time for women,
So bashful and so shy was he,
Besides he knowed that they was poison,
And so he always let them be.

Watch Cowboy Poet Baxter Black Recite Gail Gardner’s “The Dude Wrangler” on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson

About the poet Gail Gardner

Gail Gardner’s classic cowboy poem “The Dude Wrangler” paints a humorous yet poignant picture of a cowboy’s descent from rugged authenticity to something… quite unexpected. Told from the perspective of a fellow cowhand, the poem begins with admiration for his old partner—a tough, skillful cowboy who once embodied the gritty ideals of the American West. But as the poem unfolds, readers witness the narrator’s dismay at his pardner’s transformation into a “dude wrangler,” catering to tourists and losing the essence of his cowboy soul.

Summary of “The Dude Wrangler”

The narrator recounts the virtues of his former riding partner, a man with true cowboy grit. This pardner was an expert at handling wild cattle, an exceptional horseman, and so dedicated to the cowboy life that he wore nothing but Levi’s and rode horses he broke himself. He had no use for flashy hats or romantic entanglements—he was all about the work, the land, and the simple life.

However, things take a tragicomic turn when the partner, once a symbol of stoic cowboy values, “falls from grace.” Though the poem cuts off here, the title “The Dude Wrangler” (and its well-known full version) gives away the punchline: the once-proud cowboy has become a guide for “dudes” (city slickers and tourists), donning fancy clothes and entertaining guests who only want to play at being cowboys. It’s a betrayal of the old ways, and the narrator’s sorrow is layered with gentle mockery.

Analysis of the Poem’s Themes and Style

Gail Gardner, one of Arizona’s most beloved cowboy poets, brings humor, irony, and affection to “The Dude Wrangler.” The poem plays on the tension between tradition and change—between the authentic cowboy lifestyle and the commercialization of the West. The narrator’s nostalgic tone reflects a broader cultural anxiety: the fear that the true cowboy is becoming an endangered species, replaced by tourism and spectacle.

Stylistically, Gardner uses plainspoken language and rhythmic, musical verse to mirror the storytelling traditions of working cowboys. The use of cowboy slang (“pardner,” “Levis,” “Stetson”) grounds the poem in its Western setting and gives readers a sense of its authenticity. The poem’s charm lies in its simplicity and sincerity—it’s a light-hearted lament, a tall tale with a heart.

Baxter Black Revives the Classic on National TV

This beloved poem gained even wider recognition when Baxter Black, another iconic Arizona cowboy poet, performed “The Dude Wrangler” on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson. Black’s performance, full of theatrical flair and comedic timing, brought Gardner’s words to life for a national audience. It was a perfect pairing: Black, like Gardner, understood the delicate balance between honoring cowboy tradition and laughing at its quirks.

Baxter’s rendition celebrated Gardner’s storytelling while showing how cowboy poetry can connect people across generations. It also marked a rare moment when cowboy poetry was broadcast on one of the biggest stages in American pop culture.

📚 Want to learn more about cowboy poetry in Arizona?

Explore the life and legacy of Gail Gardner, the Prescott cowboy and poet who penned “The Dude Wrangler.”
Discover the unforgettable humor and heart of Baxter Black, a modern cowboy poet who brought Western storytelling to millions.
Browse AZPoetry.com’s growing collection of cowboy poets and keep the spirit of the West alive—one verse at a time.

Baxter Black

April 2, 2025

Baxter Black: The Cowboy Poet Who Rode Words Across America

Baxter Black (January 10, 1945 – June 10, 2022) wasn’t just a poet—he was a cowboy, veterinarian, humorist, and one of the most recognized voices in modern cowboy poetry. Known for his wit, insight, and deep understanding of rural and ranching life, Black penned more than 30 books and reached millions through radio, television, and live performances.

His work painted vivid and often hilarious portraits of the American West, blending homespun wisdom with sharp storytelling and infectious charm. From cattle drives to county fairs, Baxter Black gave a voice to the working cowboy—and in doing so, became a beloved figure in Western literature.

Early Life and Cowboy Roots

Born in Brooklyn Naval Hospital in New York City, Baxter Black was raised in Las Cruces, New Mexico, where he cultivated the cowboy spirit that would later define his career. A natural leader, he became president of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and senior class president in high school. He lettered in wrestling and began riding bulls in local rodeos—an early indication of his fearless nature.

His academic path led him to New Mexico State University, followed by Colorado State University, where he earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 1969. For the next 13 years, he worked as a large-animal veterinarian, focusing on cattle and horses. It was during this time, traveling the country and swapping stories with ranchers, that Baxter found his true calling as a storyteller.

From Veterinary Practice to Cowboy Poetry Icon

By the early 1980s, Baxter Black’s humorous and heartfelt poems began turning heads across the Western U.S. His transition from veterinarian to full-time entertainer happened naturally. He began performing at events and quickly grew a national following. With over 250 speaking engagements per year during the early days of his poetic career, he became a familiar and beloved presence in rural communities.

Black’s breakout into mainstream media came when he became a regular commentator on NPR’s Morning Edition, where his weekly musings on cowboy life ran for 20 years. His radio show, Baxter Black on Monday, and syndicated column, On the Edge of Common Sense, were picked up by over 150 publications and stations nationwide, solidifying his role as America’s favorite cowboy poet.

A Cowboy’s Voice on Stage and Screen

Beyond the written word, Baxter Black’s presence shined on stage and screen. He hosted “Baxter Black and Friends” on public television and appeared regularly on RFD-TV and The Cowboy Channel, entertaining viewers with his unique brand of humor and poetry.

What made Baxter special was his authenticity. He wasn’t just writing about cowboy life—he lived it. Whether performing at rodeos, agricultural conventions, or small-town libraries, he connected with audiences of all backgrounds.

Life in Arizona and Philosophy

Baxter spent his later years in Benson, Arizona, with his wife Cindy Lou, on a ranch where they intentionally kept life simple—no TV, no cell phones, no fax machines. His deep respect for nature, simplicity, and cowboy values was evident in both his lifestyle and his writing.

He once said:

“In spite of all the computerized, digitalized, high-tech innovations of today, there will always be a need for a cowboy.”

When asked why he became a cowboy, his answer was classic Baxter:

“You either are one, or you aren’t. You never have to decide.”

Legacy and Final Years

In late 2021, Baxter Black officially retired from writing and public appearances due to declining health. On June 10, 2022, he passed away at the age of 77 from complications related to leukemia. But his legacy lives on—in books, recordings, and the memories of those who found joy, laughter, and comfort in his work.

His poetry and prose remain essential reading for anyone who loves the West, appreciates cowboy culture, or just enjoys a good story told well.

Baxter Black’s Books of Cowboy Poetry

Here are just a few of Baxter Black’s poetry books that celebrate his wit, wisdom, and storytelling brilliance. Each book is a tribute to the cowboy life—perfect for poetry fans, Western readers, or anyone who appreciates a good laugh:

👉 Looking to add these titles to your collection? Click each title to purchase through our Amazon affiliate links and support AZPoetry.com!

Remembering Baxter Black

Whether he was making you laugh with a tale of an ornery mule, reflecting on the beauty of ranch life, or reminding us of the grit and grace of the American cowboy, Baxter Black left a lasting mark on the literary and agricultural communities alike.

His poetry bridged the gap between rural and urban, humor and hardship, past and present. For generations to come, his voice will echo across plains, barns, and back porches everywhere.

📚 Explore more about Baxter Black’s life and legacy right here on AZPoetry.com.
🤠 Want more cowboy poets? Browse our growing collection of Arizona-based poets celebrating Western heritage.

Big Iron poem artwork Marty Robbins | AZpoetry.com

Big Iron by Marty Robbins

March 9, 2025

“Big Iron” by Marty Robbins

To the town of Agua Fria rode a stranger one fine day
Hardly spoke to folks around him, didn’t have too much to say
No one dared to ask his business, no one dared to make a slip
For the stranger there among them had a big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip

It was early in the morning when he rode into the town
He came riding from the south side slowly lookin’ all around
He’s an outlaw loose and running, came the whisper from each lip
And he’s here to do some business with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip

In this town there lived an outlaw by the name of Texas Red
Many men had tried to take him and that many men were dead
He was vicious and a killer though a youth of 24
And the notches on his pistol numbered one and 19 more
One and 19 more

Now the stranger started talking, made it plain to folks around
Was an Arizona ranger, wouldn’t be too long in town
He came here to take an outlaw back alive or maybe dead
And he said it didn’t matter he was after Texas Red
After Texas Red

Wasn’t long before the story was relayed to Texas Red
But the outlaw didn’t worry men that tried before were dead
20 men had tried to take him, 20 men had made a slip
21 would be the ranger with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip

The morning passed so quickly, it was time for them to meet
It was 20 past 11 when they walked out in the street
Folks were watching from the windows, everybody held their breath
They knew this handsome ranger was about to meet his death
About to meet his death

There was 40 feet between them when they stopped to make their play
And the swiftness of the ranger is still talked about today
Texas Red had not cleared leather ‘fore a bullet fairly ripped
And the ranger’s aim was deadly with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip

It was over in a moment and the folks had gathered round
There before them lay the body of the outlaw on the ground
Oh, he might have went on living but he made one fatal slip
When he tried to match the ranger with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip
Big iron, big iron
When he tried to match the ranger with the big iron on his hip
Big iron on his hip

Listen to “Big Iron” by Marty Robbins on Spotify

About the poet Marty Robbins

Marty Robbins’ “Big Iron” is a masterclass in Western balladry, blending vivid storytelling, poetic imagery, and timeless themes of justice and fate. The song follows a mysterious Arizona Ranger as he rides into Agua Fria, determined to bring down the feared outlaw Texas Red. Through meticulous lyricism, Robbins crafts a narrative rich in suspense, folklore, and poetic justice.

Summary & Themes

From the very first lines, Robbins immerses the listener in a classic Western showdown, using precise, cinematic storytelling. The stranger, later revealed as an Arizona Ranger, arrives in town with a singular purpose—to bring an outlaw to justice. Texas Red, a ruthless gunslinger with twenty kills to his name, is confident that he will add another notch to his pistol. However, the climactic duel proves otherwise—the Ranger is too quick, and Texas Red falls.

The song is ultimately a tale of inevitability. Robbins constructs a sense of fateful doom, where the outlaw’s overconfidence leads to his downfall. The refrain “big iron on his hip” serves as both a symbol of justice and an ominous reminder that no outlaw is beyond retribution.

Poetic Devices & Analysis

Robbins’ lyrical style in Big Iron is steeped in poetic tradition, utilizing alliteration, repetition, and strong visual imagery to enhance the narrative. Some of the most effective poetic elements include:

Repetition for emphasis – The phrase “big iron on his hip” is repeated like a legend being passed down, reinforcing the mythical nature of the Ranger’s skill.
Imagery and suspense – The line “There was 40 feet between them when they stopped to make their play” creates a stark, visual intensity, mirroring the tension of a classic gunfight.
Symbolism – The big iron itself becomes a symbol of swift justice, embodying law and order in the untamed frontier.
Folk ballad structure – The song follows a narrative arc that resembles oral storytelling traditions, making it feel like a timeless Western legend.

Legacy & Impact

“Big Iron” remains one of Robbins’ most celebrated songs, inspiring countless covers, cultural references, and even a revival in video games like Fallout: New Vegas. The song is an example of how poetry and music intertwine to create enduring folklore, with Robbins acting as a modern bard of the Old West.

Marty Robbins’ ability to transform historical themes into poetic ballads cements his place among the greatest Western storytellers. His lyrical craftsmanship continues to influence songwriters and poets alike, proving that the art of narrative poetry in music is far from lost.

Discover more about Marty Robbins’ life, poetry, and songwriting legacy here on his poet bio page.

Desert Rain by Mary Hunter Austin

March 8, 2025

“Desert Rain” by Mary Hunter Austin

High in the sierras,
All the smouldering summer,
Sudden the thunder!
Rain on the mountains,
Rain on the dry hills,
Spate in the gullies.

Manna of heaven
That lays the dust of the valleys,
Manna of heaven,
Working a miracle.

Rain on the desert,
Meagre and moldy,
Kissed into blossom;
Nourished to comfort
My heart and my valley’s
After the thunder.

About the poet Mary Hunter Austin

Mary Hunter Austin’s poem Desert Rain captures the transformative power of rain in arid landscapes, both literal and metaphorical. Set against the backdrop of the Sierras and the dry, desolate hills, the poem unfolds with the sudden arrival of a storm, breaking the long, smoldering summer with thunder and torrents of rain. The contrast between drought and renewal is at the heart of the poem, as the rain becomes a divine force—described as “manna of heaven”— bringing relief, nourishment, and even miracles to the parched land.

Austin’s imagery is strikingly vivid, depicting how the rain quenches the valleys, washes away dust, and revives the desert’s fragile ecosystem. She emphasizes how even “meagre and moldy” rain is enough to “kiss” the land into blossom, suggesting that even the smallest offering of sustenance can lead to profound renewal. On a deeper level, the poem speaks to human resilience and emotional restoration, as the rain’s “comfort” mirrors the way hope can emerge from hardship, much like the desert’s revival after the storm.

Austin’s Desert Rain is a celebration of nature’s delicate balance, a recognition of life’s cyclical struggles, and a reminder that even in the harshest environments, renewal is possible.

Learn more about Mary Hunter Austin and her literary legacy here on her poet bio page.

Marty Robbins

March 7, 2025

Marty Robbins: Arizona’s Balladeer of the American West

Marty Robbins, born Martin David Robinson on September 26, 1925, in Glendale, Arizona, was a prolific singer-songwriter whose poetic storytelling and masterful songwriting defined Western balladry for generations. Known for his evocative lyrics and rich narratives, Robbins brought the spirit of the American West to life through his music, making him one of the most celebrated songwriters in country and western history. Over his nearly four-decade career, Robbins crafted over 500 songs, including the timeless “El Paso” and “Big Iron”, both of which remain among the Top 100 Western Songs of All Time, as ranked by the Western Writers of America.

From Arizona Roots to National Stardom

Raised in Glendale, Arizona, Robbins’ musical foundation was shaped by the vivid storytelling of his maternal grandfather, Texas Bob Heckle, who regaled him with tales of the Wild West. His time in the U.S. Navy during World War II also played a crucial role in his musical development, as he taught himself to play the guitar and began writing songs while stationed in the Solomon Islands. Upon returning home, he honed his craft in Phoenix’s clubs and radio stations, quickly gaining a local following before signing with Columbia Records in the early 1950s.

A Songwriter with a Poet’s Heart

Robbins’ lyrics read like poetry, painting cinematic landscapes of gunfights, outlaws, and doomed romance in the rugged terrain of the Southwest. His most iconic track, “El Paso” (1959), a Grammy Award-winning ballad, tells the tragic tale of a cowboy’s love and demise in the titular Texas town. The song, with its vivid imagery and dramatic storytelling, became a cultural touchstone, covered by numerous artists, including the Grateful Dead and Elvis Presley.

Beyond his Western ballads, Robbins’ versatility as a songwriter and poet shined through in his diverse catalog, spanning pop, country, rockabilly, and outlaw country. Songs like “A White Sport Coat and a Pink Carnation,” “Don’t Worry,” and “Devil Woman” showcased his ability to blend poetic lyricism with mainstream appeal, earning him commercial success across genres.

A Lasting Legacy in Music and Culture

Robbins was not only a Country Music Hall of Fame inductee but also named Artist of the Decade (1960s) by the Academy of Country Music. His songs continue to influence modern music and pop culture, appearing in films, television shows, and video games such as Fallout: New Vegas. His songwriting remains an inspiration for modern country artists, proving that the art of poetic storytelling through song never fades.

On December 8, 1982, Marty Robbins passed away at the age of 57, but his music endures as a testament to the power of poetic songwriting. His ability to craft lyrical narratives filled with adventure, romance, and the spirit of the American West solidifies his place as one of Arizona’s most legendary poets in song.