Tag: Cowboy Poetry

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

Tyin a knot in the Devils Tail cowboy poet Gail Gardner | AZpoetry.com

“Tyin’ Knots in the Devils Tail” by Gail Gardner

Away up high in the Sierry Petes where the yeller Jack Pine grows tall
Ol’ Sandy Bob and Buster Jig had a rodeer camp last fall.

Oh, They’d taken their hosses and their runnin’ irons an’ maybe a dog or two
And ‘lowed they’d brand any long eared calves that come within their view.

And any old dogie that flapped long ears, An’ didn’t bush up by day,
Had his long ears whittled an’ his ol’ hide scorched in a most artistic way.

Now, one fine day ol’ Sandy Bob he throwed his seago down
“I’m sick of the smell of burnin’ hair and I low’s I’m a-goin’ to town.”

So they saddles up an’ hits ‘em a lope, ‘fer it weren’t no sight of a ride
And them was the days when a Buckeroo could ‘ile up his insides.

They starts her in at the Kaintucky Bar at the head of Whiskey Row
An’ they winds up down at the Depot House, some forty drinks below.

They then sets up and turns around and goes ‘er the other way
An’ to tell you the Gawd-forsaken truth, them boys got stewed that day!

As they was a-ridin’ back to camp a-packin’ a purty good load
Who should they meet but the Devil hisself just a prancing’ down the road!

Sez he, “You ornery cowboy skunks, you better hunt ‘yer holes!
Fer’ I’ve come up from Hell’s rim rock just to gather in your souls.”

Sez Sandy Bob, “Ol’ Devil be damned . . . we boys is kinda’ tight,
But you ain’t a-gonna’ gather no cowboy souls, without some kind o’ fight!”

So, Sandy Bob punched a hole in his rope, and he swang ‘er straight and true,
An he lapped it onto the Devil’s horns, an’ he taken his dallies too.

Now Buster Jig was a riata man, with his gut-line coiled up neat,
So he shaken her out an’ built him a loop, and he lassed the Devil’s hind feet.

They stretched him out and they tailed him down while the irons was a-gettin’ hot,
They cropped and swaller-forked his yeres, then they branded him up . . . a lot!

They pruned his horns with a de-hornin’ saw an’ they knotted his tail fer a joke,
Then they rid off and left him there, necket to a Black-Jack oak.

Well, if you’re ever up high in the Sierry Petes an’ you hear one Hell of a wail,
You’ll know it’s that Devil a-bellerin’ around about them knots in his tail.

About the Poet Gail Gardner

Gail Gardner’s “Sierry Petes” is a rollicking tale of cowboy antics and mischief, featuring two rowdy buckaroos who manage to outwit the Devil himself in classic Western style. Filled with humor, vivid imagery, and rugged charm, the poem showcases Gardner’s talent for capturing the wild and adventurous spirit of the Old West.

To learn more about Gail Gardner’s life, his impact on cowboy poetry, and his enduring legacy in Arizona’s literary tradition, visit his full biography HERE.

Gail Gardner Cowboy Poet Arizona | AZpoetry.com

Gail Gardner

Gail Gardner: The Legendary Cowboy Poet of Prescott

Gail Irwin Gardner (1892–1988) was a trailblazing cowboy poet and rancher whose legacy is firmly rooted in the cultural history of Prescott, Arizona. Known for his humor, authenticity, and vivid storytelling, Gardner’s poems captured the rugged spirit of the Old West and earned him a place as one of the most beloved cowboy poets of his time.

Early Life in Arizona

Born on Christmas Day in 1892, Gail Gardner grew up in Prescott, Arizona, a town he would call home for nearly his entire life. Raised in the heart of the Wild West, Gardner’s childhood was shaped by the natural beauty and tough realities of frontier life.

Although he would eventually become synonymous with cowboy culture, Gardner was initially drawn to academia. He graduated from Prescott High School in 1910 and attended Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. However, the pull of the Arizona ranching lifestyle ultimately brought him back home.

A Life of Many Hats

Throughout his life, Gail Gardner wore many hats—both literally and figuratively. He was a scholar, an accomplished athlete, a reluctant storekeeper, a cowboy, a rancher, and even a postmaster. Yet no matter the role, Gardner always brought his unique perspective and sharp wit to his endeavors.

He was deeply involved in the Prescott community, becoming a key figure in some of its most iconic institutions. Gardner was a founding member of the Smoki People, a group dedicated to preserving Indigenous culture and history, and an original member of the Prescott Corral of Westerners International, an organization devoted to the history of the American West.

Gardner also played an integral role in Prescott’s “World’s Oldest Rodeo,” a celebrated tradition that exemplifies the region’s cowboy heritage.

Cowboy Poetry and “Sierry Petes”

Gail Gardner is best remembered for his cowboy poetry, which brought humor, authenticity, and a deep sense of place to tales of the Old West. His most famous poem, “Sierry Petes (Tying Knots in the Devil’s Tail),” is a rollicking story about two cowboys who encounter the Devil in the Arizona mountains. Written in 1917, the poem is cherished for its colorful language, lively rhythm, and timeless charm.

“Sierry Petes” became a cornerstone of cowboy poetry and has been performed and adapted by countless musicians and storytellers. The poem exemplifies Gardner’s talent for capturing the essence of cowboy life while entertaining audiences with larger-than-life characters and humorous twists.

Contributions to Western Culture

Gardner’s impact extended far beyond his poetry. As a rancher, he embodied the spirit of the West, working the land and living the life he so vividly described in his verse. As a storyteller, he preserved the traditions and values of a disappearing way of life, ensuring that the legends of the cowboy would endure for generations.

His work earned him recognition and admiration across the Southwest, and he became a celebrated figure in the cowboy poetry movement. Gardner’s legacy continues to inspire poets, musicians, and writers who seek to capture the spirit of the West in their art.

A Lasting Legacy

Gail Gardner passed away in 1988, but his contributions to Arizona’s cultural heritage remain. His poetry, especially “Sierry Petes,” is a testament to his talent as a wordsmith and his love for the rugged beauty of the American West.

Gardner’s work is a vital part of Arizona’s literary tradition, standing as a bridge between the past and the present. His ability to blend humor, authenticity, and storytelling has left an indelible mark on cowboy poetry and ensured his place as one of the genre’s most influential figures.

Discover More Arizona Poets HERE!

Posted in Poets  • 
Art inspired by Recipe for Greatness poem by Zane Grey AZpoetry.com

“Recipe For Greatness” by Zane Grey

To bear up under loss;
To fight the bitterness of defeat
and the weakness of grief;
To be victor over anger;
To smile when tears are close;
To resist disease and evil
men and base instincts;
To hate hate and to love love;
To go on when it would seem good to die;
To look up with unquenchable faith
in something ever more about to be.
That is what any man can do,
and be great.

About the Poet Zane Grey

Zane Grey’s Recipe for Greatness is a stirring reflection on resilience, love, and unyielding faith in the face of life’s most challenging trials. With profound simplicity, Grey outlines the qualities that define true greatness—overcoming loss, embracing love, resisting hatred, and persevering when giving up feels easier. His words inspire readers to strive for a higher ideal, even in the darkest moments, reminding us of the strength that lies within.

Discover more about Zane Grey’s life, his influence on Western literature, and his connection to Arizona HERE. Click to learn about the legendary storyteller who infused his works with the spirit of the American West!

Discover more poetry inspired by Arizona HERE.

Zane Grey Cowboy Poet Writer | AZpoetry.com

Zane Grey

Zane Grey: A Western Novelist’s Legacy in Arizona and Poetry

Zane Grey, one of the most celebrated Western novelists of the 20th century, left an indelible mark not only on American literature but also on the culture of Arizona and the genre of cowboy poetry. Best known for his gripping tales of the untamed West, such as Riders of the Purple Sage (1912), Grey captured the rugged beauty, moral complexities, and frontier spirit of the American Southwest. While primarily recognized as a novelist, Grey’s creative endeavors extended to poetry, as exemplified by his evocative poem Recipe for Greatness. His connection to Arizona, along with his contributions to Western literature, continues to inspire writers and poets in the state and beyond.

Early Life and Journey to the West

Born Pearl Zane Grey in Zanesville, Ohio, in 1872, Grey initially pursued a career as a dentist, following in the footsteps of his father. However, his passion for storytelling and adventure eventually steered him toward writing. In 1907, he published his first novel, Betty Zane, inspired by the life of a family ancestor. Though moderately successful, it wasn’t until the publication of Riders of the Purple Sage that Grey cemented his place in literary history.

Grey’s deep fascination with the American West was sparked by his travels to Arizona and other frontier regions. His vivid descriptions of Arizona’s canyons, deserts, and mesas became hallmarks of his work, often functioning as characters in their own right. Grey spent a significant amount of time in Arizona, particularly in the northern part of the state, where he found inspiration for many of his novels. His frequent visits to the state allowed him to interact with cowboys, ranchers, and Native American communities, further enriching his understanding of the region’s culture and history.

Zane Grey’s Impact on Arizona Writers and Cowboy Poetry

Grey’s novels were instrumental in popularizing the American West, painting a romantic yet gritty picture of the frontier that resonated with readers worldwide. This legacy had a profound influence on Arizona writers, particularly those in the tradition of cowboy poetry. His ability to distill the ethos of the West—its values of resilience, independence, and justice—served as a model for countless writers and poets who sought to celebrate the region’s unique identity.

Though Grey is often categorized as a novelist, his works occasionally revealed a poetic sensibility. The imagery in his writing often bordered on the lyrical, and his love for the land is palpable in his descriptions of Arizona’s landscapes. This poetic quality bridged the gap between prose and verse, inspiring cowboy poets who sought to capture the spirit of the West through rhyme and rhythm.

Grey’s forays into poetry, while less prominent than his fiction, reflect his ability to express complex ideas with simplicity and elegance. His poem Recipe for Greatness, for instance, embodies the values of perseverance and moral strength that are central to his body of work. While Grey didn’t primarily identify as a poet, pieces like this demonstrate his versatility as a writer and his deep understanding of the human spirit.

Legacy in Arizona

Zane Grey’s relationship with Arizona extended beyond literature. He owned a cabin near Payson, Arizona, where he spent time writing and immersing himself in the state’s rugged landscapes. This cabin served as a retreat and a creative haven, influencing many of his works set in the region. Although the original cabin was destroyed in a wildfire, a replica now stands in Payson, serving as a museum dedicated to Grey’s life and legacy.

Grey’s influence on Arizona’s literary and cultural heritage is profound. His novels helped shape the popular image of the American West, and his appreciation for the state’s natural beauty encouraged readers to view Arizona as a place of adventure and mystique. Cowboy poets and Western writers in Arizona often cite Grey as a foundational figure, someone who brought the spirit of the frontier to life and elevated it to an art form.

Zane Grey’s Continued Relevance

Today, Zane Grey’s works remain a cornerstone of Western literature, and his influence extends beyond novels. His stories have been adapted into over 100 films and television series, further solidifying his legacy. For cowboy poets and Western writers, Grey’s ability to capture the essence of the West—its landscapes, characters, and values—continues to be a source of inspiration.

By publishing Recipe for Greatness alongside his novels, AZPoetry.com celebrates Zane Grey not just as a novelist but also as a poet whose words reflect the timeless ideals of the West. Whether through prose or poetry, Grey’s work reminds us of the enduring power of storytelling and its ability to preserve the history, culture, and spirit of the American frontier.

Conclusion

Zane Grey’s legacy as a Western novelist and occasional poet is inseparable from Arizona’s cultural history. His vivid portrayals of the state’s landscapes and people continue to inspire writers and poets to this day. With his poem Recipe for Greatness, Grey demonstrates that his creative talents extended beyond fiction, offering readers a glimpse into the values and principles that guided his life and work. By remembering Zane Grey through his poetry, we honor not only his contributions to literature but also his enduring connection to Arizona and the American West.

Let Zane Grey’s words remind us of the greatness that can be achieved through perseverance, creativity, and a deep love for the land. Read Recipe for Greatness and experience the poetic side of this Western legend.

Discover More Poets Inspired By Arizona HERE.

Posted in Poets  • 
Dom Flemons songwriter poet | Azpoetry.com

Dom Flemons

Dom Flemons: From Arizona Slam Poetry to Grammy-Winning Folk Musician

Dom Flemons, widely known as “The American Songster,” is a versatile poet, songwriter, and musician whose work has made a profound impact on Arizona’s creative landscape. Born and raised in Phoenix, Flemons began his artistic journey in the state’s rich artistic and cultural communities. His evolution from a prominent slam poet in Flagstaff to a Grammy-winning roots musician is a testament to his dynamic talent and dedication to storytelling through both words and music.

Early Life in Arizona and Musical Beginnings

Growing up in Phoenix, Flemons was captivated by diverse musical traditions, from folk to blues, which laid the foundation for his future as an acclaimed musician. During this time, he also began exploring poetry and storytelling as a means of creative expression. Early on, Flemons performed in coffee houses and small venues across Arizona, building a reputation for his engaging performances and passion for traditional American music.

Flemons became a prolific figure in Arizona’s creative circles, producing 25 albums featuring local singer-songwriters and poets, including six of his own projects. These early experiences helped shape his artistic vision and introduced him to the vibrant cultural traditions of the Southwest.

Slam Poetry Days in Flagstaff

Flemons attended Northern Arizona University (NAU) in Flagstaff, where he earned a degree in English. His academic focus encompassed creative writing, Latin, Greco-Roman literature, Shakespeare, and poetry, further enriching his artistic palette. During his time at NAU, Flemons immersed himself in the dynamic slam poetry scene, which was flourishing in Flagstaff.

As a slam poet, Flemons collaborated and competed with some of Arizona’s most notable poets, including Aaron Hopkins-Johnson, The Klute, Logan Phillips, John Kofonow, and Suzy Lafollette. In 2002, Flemons represented Flagstaff at the National Poetry Slam in Minneapolis as part of the city’s slam poetry team, finishing 35th out of 56 teams. His performances were known for their sharp wit, rhythm, and powerful storytelling, reflecting his ability to blend poetic expression with performance art.

Transition to Music and National Success

After making his mark in slam poetry, Flemons returned to his first love: music. His passion for preserving and performing traditional American roots music led him to co-found the Carolina Chocolate Drops, a Grammy-winning group dedicated to reviving African American string band traditions. The band’s groundbreaking album, “Genuine Negro Jig,” won a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Album in 2010.

As a solo artist, Flemons has continued to celebrate and innovate within the folk music genre. His critically acclaimed album “Black Cowboys“ (2018) was a Grammy Award nominee for Best Folk Album and earned a Blues Music Award nomination in the Acoustic Album category. The album sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of African Americans to the history of the American West, blending music, poetry, and storytelling to create a vivid narrative.

Legacy in Arizona and Beyond

Dom Flemons’ artistic journey from the slam poetry stages of Flagstaff to international acclaim as a Grammy-winning musician highlights his unparalleled versatility and commitment to storytelling. His early years in Arizona’s poetry and performance communities played a pivotal role in shaping his creative voice, and he continues to inspire artists and audiences with his dedication to preserving America’s cultural heritage.

Flemons’ work, whether through poetry or music, reflects his deep appreciation for history, identity, and the power of words to connect people. From his time as a slam poet in Flagstaff to his groundbreaking contributions to American roots music, Dom Flemons remains a treasured figure in Arizona’s artistic legacy.

For more about Dom Flemons and his creative journey, visit his official website at The American Songster.

Discover more poets and writers from Arizona HERE.

Posted in Poets  • 
A Cowboy's Prayer poem by Badger Clark | AZpoetry.com

“A Cowboy’s Prayer” by Badger Clark

A Cowboy’s Prayer

(Written for Mother)

Oh Lord, I’ve never lived where churches grow.
I love creation better as it stood
That day You finished it so long ago
And looked upon Your work and called it good.
I know that others find You in the light
That’s sifted down through tinted window panes,
And yet I seem to feel You near tonight
In this dim, quiet starlight on the plains.

I thank You, Lord, that I am placed so well,
That You have made my freedom so complete;
That I’m no slave of whistle, clock or bell,
Nor weak-eyed prisoner of wall and street.
Just let me live my life as I’ve begun
And give me work that’s open to the sky;
Make me a pardner of the wind and sun,
And I won’t ask a life that’s soft or high.

Let me be easy on the man that’s down;
Let me be square and generous with all.
I’m careless sometimes, Lord, when I’m in town,
But never let ’em say I’m mean or small!
Make me as big and open as the plains,
As honest as the hawse between my knees,
Clean as the wind that blows behind the rains,
Free as the hawk that circles down the breeze!

Forgive me, Lord, if sometimes I forget.
You know about the reasons that are hid.
You understand the things that gall and fret;
You know me better than my mother did.
Just keep an eye on all that’s done and said
And right me, sometimes, when I turn aside,
And guide me on the long, dim, trail ahead
That stretches upward toward the Great Divide.

About the poet Badger Clark

“A Cowboy’s Prayer” was originally written and published in the 1910s by Badger Clark. The poem explores the poet’s musings on faith, career, and landscape as pillars of American life. Learn more about the poet HERE.

Badger Clark

Badger Clark (Charles Badger Clark Jr.) was born on January 1, 1883, in Albany, Iowa, and became one of the most iconic voices in American Western poetry. Though he is most commonly associated with South Dakota, where he served as the state’s poet laureate for many years, Clark spent a significant amount of time in the American Southwest, including Arizona, where the rugged landscapes and cowboy culture deeply influenced his work. Known for his ability to capture the spirit of the frontier, Clark’s poetry resonates with themes of freedom, nature, and the life of a cowboy, all expressed in a simple yet vivid style.

Early Life and Inspiration

Badger Clark grew up in Deadwood, South Dakota, where he was introduced to the rugged lifestyle of the West from a young age. After studying at Deadwood High School, he attended Dakota Wesleyan University but left due to poor health. In search of a better climate, Clark ventured to Arizona, where he found solace in the open skies and desert landscapes. It was here, in the remote areas of the Southwest, that Clark began writing poetry as a way to express his connection to the land and its people.

During his time in Arizona, Clark took up the cowboy lifestyle, working as a ranch hand and living in rustic cabins. These experiences profoundly shaped his poetic voice and provided him with the material that would later make him a celebrated figure in Western literature.

Literary Career

Clark’s first collection, “Sun and Saddle Leather” (1915), captured the essence of the cowboy way of life and earned him widespread acclaim. This collection includes some of his most famous poems, such as “A Cowboy’s Prayer” and “The Glory Trail”, which portray the cowboy as both a romantic and rugged figure, living harmoniously with nature and embracing the challenges of life on the frontier.

In “A Cowboy’s Prayer“, Clark uses simple language and a conversational tone to reflect the cowboy’s spiritual connection to the land. This poem, along with others, helped establish Clark as a voice for the Western lifestyle, celebrating the independence, resilience, and spirituality of those who lived close to the land. His poetry often employs humor, humility, and a reverence for nature, qualities that resonated with audiences who appreciated his authentic portrayal of Western life.

Time in Arizona and Influence

Although Clark is often associated with South Dakota, his years in Arizona were instrumental in shaping his poetic sensibilities. The beauty of the Arizona desert, the wide-open spaces, and the cowboy culture all found their way into his poetry, adding a Southwestern flavor to his work. His time in Arizona allowed him to fully experience the cowboy lifestyle, and this immersion lent a deep authenticity to his writing. The Southwest’s vast and rugged landscapes inspired his contemplative verses, which often explore themes of freedom, isolation, and a deep connection to nature.

Clark’s experiences in Arizona also introduced him to Hispanic and Native American cultures, which subtly influenced his perspective on life in the American West. His ability to portray the diverse aspects of Western life and his respect for the land and its people have made his work enduringly popular.

Later Life and Legacy

After returning to South Dakota, Clark continued to write and publish poetry, becoming one of the most celebrated Western poets of his time. In 1937, he was appointed Poet Laureate of South Dakota, a title he held until his death. Despite his relocation, Clark’s poetry remained infused with the spirit of the Southwest, capturing the essence of both the Arizona desert and the Northern plains.

Badger Clark passed away on September 26, 1957, in Hot Springs, South Dakota, but his work lives on as a testament to the Western experience. His poetry has been included in anthologies of American literature and continues to be celebrated by readers who admire his portrayal of cowboy life and his love for the Western landscape.

Legacy in Western and Cowboy Poetry

Badger Clark’s work laid the foundation for what would become the cowboy poetry tradition, inspiring future generations of poets to explore themes of independence, resilience, and nature. His poems continue to be read and appreciated by audiences around the world, and his influence is evident in the work of contemporary cowboy poets. His poems, which are often recited at cowboy poetry gatherings and Western heritage events, capture the spirit of the American West in a way that few others have.

In Arizona, Clark’s legacy is cherished as part of the state’s own rich tapestry of Western culture. His time spent in Arizona helped shape his perspective and brought a Southwestern essence to his work, ensuring that his poetry resonates deeply with the landscapes and lifestyles of both the Southwest and the Great Plains.

Today, Badger Clark is remembered not only as a poet but as a cultural icon who immortalized the cowboy spirit through his verse. His works, such as “Sun and Saddle Leather” and “Sky Lines and Wood Smoke,” continue to capture the imaginations of those drawn to the frontier and remain a beloved part of Western literary heritage.

Discover more significant poets who have been inspired by Arizona HERE.

Posted in Poets  •