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Poetry Rodeo
It takes a lot of cowboy-tuff to step out of a chute
Competing for a buckle and a chance to win some loot.
You scan the crowd with wary eyes, because deep down you know
That every word and every rhyme could cost you the short-go.Five judges watch with pen in hand and timers sit close by.
It's time to start reciting, but your mouth is awful dry!
Your words spill forth to fill the room with hearty tears or laughter
While goin' for the perfect ride, to get the score you're afterAs judges' scores are tallied you forget about your fate
because a friend is saddled up and riding through the gate.
Though some may win a buckle, or take home well-earned pay
We all go home much richer in the friendships forged that day.© 2007, Diane Tribitt
This poem may not be reprinted or reposted without the author's written permission.
Below:
"A Premier Workshop" by Sam Jackson
The San Juan Western Heritage Festival
A special "Thank You" to the riders and fans from MaryJo Grill
Smoke Wade's report and photos separate page
Slim McNaught's report and photos separate page
More photos and links separate page
The National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo logo competition and finalists
The 2006 Rodeo
The 2005 Rodeo
Stories and photos (separate page)
Winners and Judges
Western Legends Roundup Receives Official Recognition
Story and photos
About the 2004 Cowboy Poetry Rodeo
Story and photos (separate page)
Winners and Judges
Call for Poets and more info
The 2003 Cowboy Poetry Rodeo and Western Legends Roundup
Story and photos (separate page)
The 2002 Cowboy Poetry Rodeo and Western Legends Roundup
Reports About the Event (separate page):
The Poetry Workshop
The Competition
2002 Purse Winners
What the Competitors Say About the Event
Western Legends Roundup Events and Evening Shows
The 2001 Rodeo
Commentary and results here at the BAR-D
What is Cowboy Poetry and How do You Write It?
articles by Sam Jackson with poetry and commentary
Sam Jackson and his own award-winning poetry
here at the BAR-D
Sam Jackson's essay about Competition among Cowboy Poets
here at the BAR-D
Andy Nelson's essay, I Am a Convert, about competition, inspired by the National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo
here at the BAR-D
The 2009 Rodeo
Preliminary Information
The 2009 National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo will be held September 10-12, 2009, in Montrose, Colorado. The rodeo will team up with Tough Enough To Wear Pink and the San Juan Healthcare Foundation in the San Juan Western Heritage Festival to raise money for the local cancer center.
From Sam Jackson:
The National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo will be held this coming September 10th,11th,12th, In Montrose Colorado.
Win
Silver Buckles
Trophies
$6,000 in prize money
12 months of braggin' rights
Perform in the Headliner shows.
Support a world class charity
While
Vacationing in one of America's most spectacular western landscapes
All proceeds from the rodeo will be donated to the San Juan Colorado Health Care Foundation, to help in the fight against Breast Cancer.
For information on Montrose Colorado www.visitmontrose.net
If interested in signing up or for more information, please contact:
Sam Jackson
Producer, National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo
4675 E. Vermillion Ave.
Kanab Utah, 84741
(435) 644-5446 evenings
644-5444 days
899-1100 anytime (just about)
A Premier Workshop
The National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo (NCPR) is looking for a "Few Good Poets" who might like to enhance their writing, reciting and entertaining skills while winning a few dollars and gaining some pretty good publicity.
"Excellence through competition" is our theme and over the last dozen years has certainly proven its effectiveness. Among this year's (’09) featured performers at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko were ten who have competed in the NCPR, five of them silver buckle winners, and just about every one of them will tell you that competition enhanced their skills.
I realize that not everyone is up to poetry competition. I spoke recently with one fellow who carried a pretty dim view of poetry contests. "Well now," sez I, "If this were just a cowboy poetry contest I'd throw in with you, however the National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo is much more than just a contest, it’s a premier learning experience, the absolute best workshop you could ever imagine. The highest score, or who’s the best poet, isn’t what it’s about. This competition is specifically designed to make 'fair poets good' and 'good poets better!' It's an event that allows the poet, by participating or just watching, to gain a host of new ways of improving their expertise. Our unique approach is to pit the skills of one poet against those of another in such a manner as to further develop the talents of both, with an over-riding goal of advancing the genre of cowboy poetry to a degree benefiting both performer and audience.”
Now here’s a surprise: There are those among us who may not be (quite) so good as their wife, mother or hired hands would have them believe. For that group, this is where "The hoof meets the trail" (my metaphor—you could tell?). This is where we find out how we stack up against our peers, where we get a good look at ourselves through the eyes of folks not setting at our table. Yes, some feelings will get hurt, a few to the extent they give up performing (or at least competing) but most say "Whoa—I can do better" and they do, but either way both the genre and audience come out ahead. Perhaps we could call the process a “Verbicide.”
The vast majority use the experience to watch, listen, learn and improve, and by taking that approach, there are no losers! Those not scoring in the money have won something far more valuable: knowledge! So if they are smart (and most cowboy poets are) they now have the tools for improving their writing, reciting, stage presence and total performance, putting themselves in greater demand as entertainers, which in turn gleans a bigger audience, eventually bringing with them their friends and their friends' friends—Get the picture?
© 2009, Sam Jackson
Media release:
San Juan Western Heritage Festival &
National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo12th Annual National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo, live entertainment, and western Colorado arts and specialty products.
The San Juan Western Heritage Festival will be held September 11 and 12, 2009 at the Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Drive in Montrose, Colorado. The Festival will feature the
Friday, September 11, highlights the world's only Cowboy Poetry Rodeo from 8:00 am to 5:00 p.m. Thirty cowboy poets from 13 Western states and Canada will compete for $6000 in prize money, silver buckles, trophies and a year's worth of bragging rights. Poets compete, on stage, in a stock rodeo format. With numbers on their backs, judges and a rodeo announcer, the poets spur their "rides" (their poems) as they compete in 9 different events. There will be a Friday night show featuring cowboy poets and musical acts, many from western Colorado.
Saturday, September 12, the top 50 percent of the competing cowboy poets advance to the final round starting at 8:00 a.m. at the event center. Following the finals, a Cowboy Poetry Shoot-out will be held, as top ranked cowboy poets compete for the title, "Best in the West." Poets interested in registering for the NCPR may contact Sam Jackson, last2camp@kanab.net (435) 644-5459 or (435) 899-1100.A headliner and awards show will take place on Saturday evening featuring the winners of the National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo along with country singer, Gary Lear and his Nashville Band. www.garylearmusic.com
While in Montrose, participants will enjoy the Western Colorado Experience (Black Canyon, Ute Indian Museum, Ouray - Switzerland of America). Many will take home memories and localhand made products. There will be a raffle on a Western quilt. And no rodeo or western festival would be complete without taking home a handmade stick horse made and painted by a local artist.
The San Juan Healthcare Foundation is the major sponsor and the fundraiser proceeds will go to Caring Friends Fund for patients at the San Juan Cancer Center.
For more information go to www.sjwesternfestival.com, fsmiles@bresnan.net, or call Francie Smiles, (970)-252-2814.
The 2007 Rodeo
Some Photos and Results
The 10th annual Badger Clark Hometown Cowboy Poetry and Music Gathering hosted the 10th annual National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo, in Hot Springs, South Dakota, on September 28-29, 2007. The hospitality of event organizer MaryJo Grill, Chamber of Commerce Director George Kotti, and the entire community was extended to poets from 13 states. Poet Sam Jackson conceived the National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo, based on his belief in "excellence through competition."
Over $6,000 in prize money was distributed.National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo contestants, officials, and others pose following conclusion of rodeo.
photo by Jeri Dobrowski, obtain permission for reproduction rights
from Jeri L. Dobrowski, 1471 Carlyle Road, Beach, ND 58621 email 406-795-8168
To order, go to http://jeridobrowski.smugmug.com/gallery/3574291
Participants included Rich Bellert, Excelsior, Minnesota; Marty Blocker (Merriman, Nebraska); Marci Broyhill (Dakota City, Nebraska); Scott Hill Bumgardner (Houston, Texas); Ken Chrissley (Powell, Wyoming); Ken Cook (Martin, South Dakota); John Crabtree (Newcastle, Wyoming); Van Criddle (Eugene, Oregon); Glen Enloe (Independence, Missouri); Slim Farnsworth (Paonia, Colorado); Kenny Hall, Tropic, Utah; Don Hilmer (South Dakota); Willard Hollopeter (Wood Lake, Nebraska); Doug Keller (Kanab, Utah); Paul Kern (Sandy, Utah); Linda Kirkpatrick (Leakey, Texas); Bonnie Krogman (Wood, South Dakota); Ron McDaniel, Sulphur Springs, Arkansas; Slim McNaught (New Underwood, South Dakota); Rod Nichols (Missouri City, Texas); Susan Parker (Benicia, California), Michael Robinson (Draper, Utah), Jerry Simmons (Sioux Falls, South Dakota), Rhonda Sedgwick Stearns (Newcastle, Wyoming); Virginia Taylor (Lockney, Texas); Gordon Thomas, Genola, Utah; Diane Tribitt (Hilman, Minnesota); and Smoke Wade (Mesquite, Nevada).Judges were foreman Ed Nesselhuf of Burbank, South Dakota; Yvonne Hollenbeck of Clearfield, South Dakota; Jeri Dobrowski of Beach, North Dakota; Robert Dennis of Red Owl, South Dakota; and Verlin Pitt of Lander, Wyoming.
Among the top winners were Marty Blocker of Merriman, Nebraska; Ken Cook of Martin, South Dakota; Slim Farnsworth of Paonia, Colorado; Linda Kirkpatrick of Leakey, Texas; and Andy Nelson of Pinedale, Wyoming. Ken Cook, Slim Farnsworth, and Marty Blocker received silver buckles, and Marty Blocker, Linda Kirkpatrick, and Andy Nelson took home trophy statues.
Marty Blocker, Andy Nelson, Ken Cook, and Linda Kirkpatrick
photo by Jeri Dobrowski, obtain permission for reproduction rights
from Jeri L. Dobrowski, 1471 Carlyle Road, Beach, ND 58621 email 406-795-8168
To order, go to http://jeridobrowski.smugmug.com/gallery/3574291Following are the top-four winners for each event, all of whom received cash prizes, ranked by aggregate scores for the event.
photo by Jeri Dobrowski, obtain permission for reproduction rights
from Jeri L. Dobrowski, 1471 Carlyle Road, Beach, ND 58621 email 406-795-8168
To order, go to http://jeridobrowski.smugmug.com/gallery/3574291
2007 National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo individual event winners
Andy Nelson, Pinedale, Wyo., Shoot-out (1 original serious & 1 original humorous poem) ;
Smoke Wade, Mesquite, Nev., Silver Buckle Division - Reciter Humorous;
Slim Farnsworth, Paonia, Colo., Rising Star Division - Poet/Humorous;
Linda Kirkpatrick, Leakey, Texas, Silver Buckle Division - Reciter/Serious;
Marty Blocker, Merriman, Neb., Rising Star Division - Reciter/Humorous and Reciter/Serious;
John Crabtree, Newcastle, Wyo., Silver Buckle Division - Poet/Humorous;
Ken Cook, Martin, S.D., Rising Star Division - Poet/Serious;
Rod Nichols , Missouri City, Texas, Silver Buckle Division - Poet/Serious.1st place: Slim FarnsworthRising Stars Division (those who have not won an event in a previous rodeo)
Poet Serious (original poetry)
1st place: Ken Cook
2nd place: Marty Blocker
3rd place: Diane Tribitt
4th place: Rod NicholsPoet Humorous (original poetry)
2nd place: Marty Blocker
3rd place: Ken Cook and Ron McDaniel (tie)
4th place: John CrabtreeReciter Serious
1st place: Marty Blocker
2nd place: Rich Bellert
3rd place: Diane Tribitt
4th place: Susan Parker and Virginia Taylor (tie)Reciter Humorous
1st place: Marty Blocker
2nd place: Rhonda Sedgwick Stearns
3rd place: Susan Parker
4th place: Paul Kern
Silver Buckle Division (those have won an event in a previous rodeo and any other poet/reciter who choses to enter):
Poet Serious (original poetry)
1st place: Rod Nichols
2nd place: Linda Kirkpatrick and John Crabtree (tie)
3rd place: Van Criddle
4th place: Slim McNaught and Rhonda Sedgwick Stearns (tie)Poet Humorous (original poetry)
1st place: John Crabtree
2nd place: Slim McNaught and Rod Nichols (tie)
3rd place: Slim FarnsworthReciter Serious
1st place: Linda Kirkpatrick
2nd place: Van Criddle
3rd place: Smoke Wade
4th place: Rhonda Sedgwick StearnsReciter Humorous
1st place: Smoke Wade
2nd place: Doug Keller
3rd place: Van Criddle
4th place: Linda Kirkpatrick
Shoot Out
Following the traditional National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo events, a first-ever "Shoot Out" was held. Each entrant paid a fee and performed a humorous poem and a serious poem. The first-place winner received 75% of the entry fees, and the second-place winner received 25% (rodeo fees were subtracted from totals):
1st place: Andy Nelson
2nd place: Ken Cook
Sam Jackson provided the following money-winner information:
National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo winners, Hot Springs S.D. 2007
Marty Blocker Merriman, Nebraska $1,248 Silver Buckle/Best of the Best Trophy for overall
high money, Rising Stars Division
Ken Cook Martin, South Dakota 657 Silver Buckle
Rod Nichols Missouri, City Texas 625
Slim Farnsworth Paonia, Colorado 585 Silver Buckle
Linda Kirkpatrick Leakey, Texas 490 Trophy for high money, Silver Buckle Division
John Crabtree Newcastle, Wyoming 460
Smoke Wade Mesquite Nevada 358
Van Criddle Eugene, Oregon 300
Diane Tribitt Hillman, Minnesota 278
Rhonda Stearns Newcastle, Wyoming 217
Rich Bellert Excelsior, Minnesota 200
Susan Parker Benicia, California 137
Doug Keller Kanab, Utah 137
Ron McDaniel Sulphur Springs, Arkansas 132
Slim McNaught New Underwood, South Dakota 120
Paul Kern Salt Lake City Utah 66
Virginia Taylor Lockney Texas 40
________$ 6,050
10th Anniversary Shoot-Out
Andy Nelson Pinedale, Wyoming $ 840 and 1st place Trophy
Ken Cook Martin SD $ 280 2nd place
A special "Thank You" to the riders and fans from MaryJo Grill
Dear 2007 NCPR Poet "Riders" and Fans,
I would personally like to thank all of you for your participation in the 10th annual NCPR held this year in Hot Springs, SD, in conjunction with our 10th annual Badger Clark Poetry/Music Gathering. What a wonderful group you were to meet and visit with and how friendly and helpful you were to all of us.I have received so many emails and cards from many of you with "thanks" for our part, but we want to send a BIG "THANK YOU" to all of you. So many of you have made me feel like a part of your family and "family" was my main object of how I wanted YOU to feel when you arrived in Hot Springs. I feel so rich and blessed in the friends that I gained and hope that we will all have a chance to be together again in 2008.
Congratulations to all the Rodeo winners!
Again, thanks to each and every one of you for your part in making this event such a successful one.
"Happy Trails Until We Meet Again"
MaryJo Grill, Program Director
Photo by Jeri L. Dobrowski; see her gallery of western performers and others here.
Yvonne Hollenbeck and MaryJo Grill
See reports and photos by Smoke Wade and Slim McNaught and more photos and information on a separate page here.
[photo of Slim McNaught by Jen Dobrowski]
Updated 10/18
National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo Logo Design Competition
Sam Jackson, producer of the National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo, has announced the winners of the event's recent logo competition.
The winners are: 1st place: Greta Merrick, Boston, Massachusetts, $100; 2nd place: Diane Tribitt, Minnesota, two tickets to the headliner show at the Badger Clark Hometown Cowboy Poetry and Music Gathering (the National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo is being held in conjunction with the show); and 3rd place, Lincoln Rogers, Colorado, The BAR-D Roundup: Volume II. Sam Jackson adds, "We would like to thank everyone who submitted an entry."First place winner Greta Merrick studies Graphic Design at Boston's Northeastern University, where she has honed her skills in a subject area which transcends the boundaries of art, trade, research, and social critique. In between semesters she has held graphic design internships at the University library, as well as at the studio of Jung and Pfeffer in Bremen, Germany. A strong visual aesthetic has been central to her pursuits in all areas of life. She will be graduating with a Bachelors degree in Graphic Design from Northeastern in May of 2007. She can be reached at gretamerrick@gmail.com"
The next National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo competition takes place in Hot Springs, South Dakota, on September 28-29, 2007 and will be held in conjunction with the Badger Clark Hometown Cowboy Poetry and Music Gathering. Twenty-four poets from 12 states are entered in in 75 events at the 2007 National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo. Sam Jackson conceived the unique event—celebrating its tenth year in 2007—based on his belief in "excellence through competition."
Sam
Jackson, producer of
the National Cowboy Poetry
Rodeo,
was honored by the Cowboy Poets of
Utah at the April, 2007 Kane County Cowboy Poetry Gathering. He was
presented with an award for his "significant contribution to cowboy poetry
through the Cowboy Poetry Rodeo."
From Rodeo boss Sam Jackson, December, 2006
2007 Invitation to Compete
The National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo is looking for a few good poets to compete for more than $5,000 prize money, silver buckles, trophies, and 12 months of braggin' rights at our next event. When the chute gates open September 28th and 29th at the 2007 National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo, the riders and arena crew will be lookin' at the spectacular scenery of the Black Hills while experiencing the hospitality of the folks in the beautiful city of Hot Springs, South Dakota.
After a most successful nine-year run in Southern Utah (for which we thank those communities and everyone involved for their support) we recalled that old adage "A change is as good as a rest" and figured that moving the Cowboy Poetry Rodeo to a more central location was in order. Mary Jo Grill, co-ordination for the Badger Clark Hometown Cowboy Poetry and Music Gathering, got things rollin'. With the help of Mr. George Kotti, executive director of the Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce, we received an invitation to hold the 2007 event in their town. It seems certain that Hot Springs and the Cowboy Poetry Rodeo will complement each other and we look forward to making this our home in future years.
Hot Springs is located central to all major Black Hills attractions, such as Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Custer State Park, Jewel Cave National Monument, Wind Cave National Park, and it just so happens that the date for the CPR is right at the front end of the 41st Annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival. All of that, along with South Dakota September weather, what better time and place for a family vacation!
As time constraints allow only 60 events, I'm betting that anyone wanting in had better move fast as this looks to be the biggest and best Cowboy Poetry Rodeo ever.If interested, get back to me ASAP and I'll send along an entry form along with a copy of the updated rules and regulations. For questions or comments please forward them to:
Sam Jackson
Producer, National Cowboy Poetry Rodeo
4675 E. Vermillion Ave.
Kanab Utah, 84741
last2camp@kanab.net
(435) 644-5459/5444 or (435) 899-1100
The suggested hotel for the event is just steps away from the events center. Mention the Cowboy Poetry Rodeo:
Best Western, Sundowner Inn
737 S. 6th St., Hot Springs SD 57747
1 877-664-7378
www.bestwesternhotsprings.com
Attention: Kelly
The 2006 Rodeo
2006 Kanab Cowboy Poetry Rodeo,
some of the poets,
judges, and other participants
photo by Jeri L. Dobrowski,
obtain permission for reproduction rights
from Jeri L. Dobrowski, 1471 Carlyle Road, Beach, ND 58621 email
406-795-8168
To order, go to http://jeridobrowski.smugmug.com/gallery/1849952
The 2006 winners and runners up are:
photo by Jeri L. Dobrowski, obtain permission for reproduction rights
Sam Jackson presents the top winners: Geff Dawson, Sam DeLeeuw, Van Criddle, Smoke Wade, Doug Keller, and Alyssa AllanRising Stars:
Poet Serious: Van Criddle (Oregon)
Second place: Geff Dawson (Kansas)Poet Humorous: Geff Dawson (Kansas)
Second place: Eldon Housely (Arizona)Reciter Serious: Smoke Wade (Idaho)
Second place: Charles Williams (Texas)Reciter Humorous: Alyssa Allan (Utah)
Second place: Rhonda Sedgwick Stearns (Wyoming)Silver Buckle:
Poet Serious: Diane Tribitt (Minnesota)
Second place: Sam DeLeeuw (Utah)Poet Humorous: Sam DeLeeuw (Utah)
Second place: Doug Keller (Utah)Reciter Serious: Sam DeLeeuw (Utah)
Second place: Doug Keller (Utah)
Reciter Humorous: Sam DeLeeuw (Utah)
Second place: Doug Keller (Utah)
photo by Jeri L. Dobrowski, obtain permission for reproduction rights
Geff Dawson was recognized as the "Best of the Best," with the highest overall score in combined categories.
The 2006 Cowboy Poetry Rodeo competitors from twelve states included Diane Tribitt (Minnesota), Smoke Wade (Idaho), Clint Nielson (Utah), Harold Roy Miller (Nevada), Diana Miller (Nevada), Alyssa Allan (Utah), Geff Dawson (Kansas), Laurali Noteman (Utah), Myrna Cox (Utah), Delores Tozer (Colorado), Ken Whitecotton (Arizona), Van Criddle (Oregon), J. K. (Casey) Woods (Utah), Slim McNaught (South Dakota), Rhonda Sedgwick Stearns (Wyoming), Charles Williams (Texas), Jane Morton (Colorado) Dick Morton (Colorado), Doug Keller (Utah), Linda Kirkpatrick (Texas), Sam DeLeeuw (Utah), Tom Hatton (Colorado), Donna Hatton (Colorado), Diane Thompson (Texas), and Allen Thompson (Texas). Interestingly, the poets and reciters include four married couples as rodeo participants.
The Cowboy Poetry Rodeo took place in conjunction with the Western Legends Roundup, held August 24-27, 2006.This year's featured entertainers on the event's various stages included Curly Musgrave and Belinda Gail, DW Groethe, Brenn Hill, Don Kennington, Phil Kennington, Latigo, and Rex Allen Jr. Other Western Legends Roundup events included a Wagon Train, workshops, Dutch oven cooking, photography, painting, dancing, silversmithing, Western film festival, old-fashioned tent revival, a parade, and more.Kanab was a thriving center for Western movies, called "Little Hollywood," the place where the first talkie, In Old Arizona, was produced. The entire town became involved in the early movie making, and most extras were chosen from large albums that pictured most of the inhabitants, who were "the real deal." Old movie sets in the area remain as tourist attractions. The 2006 Little Hollywood Walk of Fame Honorees recognize living actors and those who have passed on, including Jack Elam, Dennis Weaver, Don Knotts, Maureen O'Hara, Andrew Prine, Dick Jones, Joel McCrea, and Dean Smith.
The 2005 Rodeo
2005 Kanab Cowboy Poetry Rodeo poets,
judges, and other officials
photo by Jeri L. Dobrowski,
obtain permission for reproduction rights
copies available for $6 postpaid (5x7) and $11 postpaid (8x10)
from Jeri L. Dobrowski, 1471 Carlyle Road, Beach, ND 58621 email
406-795-8168
The silver buckle and trophy winners on the Saturday night stage: Lanny Joe Burnett, Jane Morton, Dick Morton, Doug Keller, Michael Robinson, Phil Kennington, Jay Snider, and Byrd Woodward.
photo by Jeri L. Dobrowski, obtain permission for reproduction rights
A view of the 2005 judges: front row, poet, writer, and Cowboy Magazine Editor and Publisher Darrell Arnold; poet Yvonne Hollenbeck; author Brad Hainsworth; and second row, Clear Out West radio co-host Jim Nelson; and poet Ed Nesselhuff, along with announcer Brent Owens and timer Barbara Hall.
photo by Sam Jackson
The 2005 winners and runners up were:
Rising Stars:
Poet Serious: Lanny Joe Burnett
Second place: Geff DawsonPoet Humorous: Jane Morton
Second place: Geff DawsonReciter Serious: Dick Morton
Second place: Smoke WadeReciter Humorous: Doug Keller
Second place: Smoke Wade
Silver Buckle:
Poet Serious: Michael Robinson
Second place: Jay SniderPoet Humorous: Phil Kennington
Second place: Jay SniderReciter Serious: Jay Snider
Second place: Jerry Brooks
Reciter Humorous: Jay Snider
Second place: Phil Kennington
Most Improved Poet: Byrd Woodward
The competitors from 13 states were: Jay Jones (Missouri), Jim John (Kansas), Charles W. Bell (Utah), Smoke Wade (Idaho), Byrd Woodward (Arizona), Jane Morton (Colorado), Dick Morton (Colorado), Clint Nielson (Utah), Janice Gilbertson (California), Rick Pitt (Wyoming), Verlin Pitt (Wyoming), Delores Tozer (Colorado), Lanny Joe Burnett* (Texas), Harold Roy Miller (Nevada), Diana Jo Miller (Nevada), Doug Keller (Utah), Bruce Satta (Ohio), John Silveira (California), A. K. Moss* (Oregon), Geff Dawson (Kansas), Mike Moutoux (New Mexico), and Ken Whitecotton*, (Arizona). The "Silver Buckle Bunch" of past winners and those wanting to compete with them included: Linda Kirkpatrick (Texas), Michael Robinson (Utah), Phil Kennington (Utah), Jay Snider (Texas), Jerry Brooks (Utah), Lanny Joe Burnett* (Texas), A. K. Moss* (Oregon), and Ken Whitecotton (Arizona). (*indicates those entered in both divisions)
Preceding the rodeo, Thursday, August 25, 2005, there was a writing and presentation workshop by Colen Sweeten, Sam Jackson and Ed Nesselhuff.
See photos and stories from the event here.
Western Legends Roundup Receives Official Recognition
On February 26, 2004, the executive Board of the Annual Western
Legends Roundup was honored by Utah
Governor Olene Walker and the State Legislature at the State Capitol in Salt
Lake with a resolution and a legislative citation recognizing their event.
Western Legends Board President Robert Houston presented Governor Walker with a
cowboy hat, and Cowboy Poetry Rodeo founder and arena boss Sam
Jackson and others were on hand.
Back row: Brad Hainsworth, Sam Jackson,
RobertFront row--Renee Jackson, Lynette Jones, Jackie Hainsworth, Abby, Governor Olene Walker, Bonnie Ridding
2004 Winners and Judges
The focus of the Cowboy Poetry Rodeo is "excellence through competition," and past competitors such as our Honored Guests Pat Richardson and Doris Daley, are examples of poets who competed and didn't win their first time out. Both say they became better poets because of the competition, and both won in subsequent years. (Pat Richardson became the AWA Male Poet of the Year in 2003 and Doris Daley was named AWA Female Poet of the Year in 2004.)
There are two divisions, Rising Stars and the Silver Buckle Bunch (returning winners and those interested in competing with them), and this year's winners were:
Rising Star Serious Poetry: Linda Kirkpatrick
Rising Star Humorous Poetry: D. W. Groethe
Rising Star Serious Reciter: Linda Kirkpatrick
Rising Star Humorous Reciter: Jay SniderSilver Buckle Serious Poetry: Yvonne Hollenbeck
Silver Buckle Humorous Poetry: Yvonne Hollenbeck
Silver Buckle Serious Reciter: Ed Nesselhuf
Silver Buckle Humorous Reciter: Jerry BrooksSpecial Award: Most Improved Poet: Rick Pitt
2004 Cowboy Poetry Rodeo Participants
photo by Jeri L. Dobrowski, obtain permission for reproduction rights
copies available for $6 postpaid (5x7) and $11 postpaid (8x10)
from Jeri L. Dobrowski, 1471 Carlyle Road, Beach, ND 58621 email 406-795-8168
The winners received buckles, statues, plaques, and their share of the large purse.
The competitors were:
Rising Stars: Linda Kirkpatrick, Clint Nielson, J. D. Kunze, Bill Black, Robert Dennis, D. W. Groethe, Byrd Woodward, Charley Sierra, Doug Keller, Delores Tozer, Jane Morton, Jay Snider, Janice Gilbertson, Rick Pitt, Verlin Pitt, *Brent De Shon, Dick Morton, Smoke Wade and *Lucky Whipple.
Silver Buckle Bunch: Yvonne Hollenbeck, Jerry Brooks, Ed Nesselhuf, Sam DeLeeuw, Michael Robinson, *Lucky Whipple, and *Brent De Shon.* indicates those entered in both divisions.
The 2004 judges were Brad Hainsworth, Doris Daley, Charles Williams, Pat Richardson, Merlin Bundy, and Colen Sweeten (alternate).
Visit the Western Legends Roundup web site for more information about that event and the Cowboy Poetry Rodeo.
About
the 2004 Cowboy Poetry Rodeo
call
for poets and more info ...
August
27-28, 2004
Call
for Cowboy Poets:
The Western Legends Round-up, Cowboy Poetry Rodeo, at Kanab Utah, is looking for a “Few Good Poets”, preferably those who enjoy competition, would like to enhance their entertainment skills, win a few $$ and get some good press while they’re at it.
Note
our slogan ---“Excellence
through Competition!”
You’re
wondering-- what the heck is a Cowboy Poetry Rodeo?
Fair question—As you well know, cowboy poetry as public entertainment
is a fairly new "kid-on-the-block.". It’s debut was
in Elko Nevada a few years back when a feller, name of Hal Cannon,
figured time was right for some old timers to get together and set down
their stories and songs about cowboys and ranch life. The good news is;
from that small beginning, cowboy poetry
snowballed—the bad news—its popularity soon out ran the
talent pool with some folks announcing themselves as “Cowboy Poet
Entertainers” a bit sooner than [perhaps] they should have. But back
to your question: The Cowboy Poetry Rodeo is a means of
encouraging “bad poets to become good-- and good poets to become
better!” and in our six years running has proven a *resounding
success.
Well,
that seems a noble quest, mind
explaining why?
Glad to, it’s very simple: Several years ago myself and a couple other fellers were chewing over the fact that cowboy poetry could become a valuable tool in keeping our western heritage in front of the publics eye, however to gain-- then keep--an integrated audience, the art form must be written and presented in the most professional manner possible.
Mind
giving me a brief run-down on it’s mechanics?
Sure
enough: It is normally a two day event
which, for more ‘western’ flavor, is organized as much like a
stock rodeo as possible. Each contestant (Rider) pays an entry
fee and may enter any one, or all, of the four events: “Poet/serious”
or “Poet/humorous” (a “Poet” performs their own
work) “Reciter/serious” or “Reciter/humorous” (a “Reciter”
performs the work of others). Each “ride” (delivery of a
performance) is judged by a panel of 5 individuals with extensive
backgrounds in cowboy poetry. The top 50% of the poets from the first
days go-round advance to the second. The four highest final scores in
each event receive prize monies totaling around $6,000.00 (100% of entry
fees plus $3,000.00 donated by Western Legends)
The top score in each event also receives a championship buckle,
and an invitation to perform in the evening headliner shows with the
likes of Baxter Black, Waddie Mitchell, and Red Steagall.
Are there any other reasons leading you to believe that “up-grading” the talent level is important? Yes, the short answer is; So people will listen! but taking it a bit further; it’s common knowledge that ranchers and other folks here in the West, take a lot of undeserved heat for the [alleged ruination] of the publics playgrounds by using them for such frivolous projects as raising food. Perhaps if Cowboy Poetry entertainment was upgraded to a level of excellence acceptable to the general public, it could also help spread the Gospel of Western Horse Sense, which reasons that “Underneath those ten gallon hats, live some Good-ol’-Boys who are perfectly capable of managing our western lands in a manner that would benefit everyone. In summary; the better entertainers we become, the larger, more diversified and influential our audience becomes!
How
do the poets handle competing with each other?
Much the
same as you see in the stock rodeos; cheering each other on and helping
in every way you can imagine. The
majority think it’s the best thing since the good Lord gave horses
four legs instead of three! Ninety percent of the riders, regardless of
whether they get throwed or receive a high score, come away feeling they
profited from the experience. Of course, as with any competition, you
run across those few who feel ‘not winning the gold’ means
failure, and quickly look around for someone or something to blame, but
to the majority, ‘not-winning’
simply means; “I’m not as good as I could be, and will
try to do better!” Those folks are the real winners in
any competition. For most
poets it does one of two things; they get better--or quit! Either way
the genre is better off.. Please note that I refrain from using the
word; ‘losers’, as no one in any competition ‘looses’ unless
they bring it on themselves. Perhaps the money or the silver buckles
ride home in someone else’s outfit, but the astute gain something far
more valuable by watching, listening to and discussing methods with
their peers. To quote an old proverb; “An hour with a wise man is
more valuable than a year of self learning.”
Keep in mind that we are located in one of the most beautiful settings on earth—totally surrounded by national parks; Canyon Lands, Lake Powell, Capital Reef, Bryce, Zion, Grand Canyon , the Kaibab plateau, and other scenic treats in every direction.. The weather in late August is beautiful, so bring your family and make it the vacation of a lifetime---and of course---you just might pay for it out of your winnings!
If you have an interest, give me a holler soon as our roster is just about full.
Best regards,
Sam Jackson, arena boss
4675 East Vermillion ave.
Kanab
Utah 84741
(435) 544-5459 or (435) 899-1100
e-mail
lastcamp@kanab.net
Posted
12/5/03
The Cowboy Rodeo and its rules to govern are protected by copyright, registered at the United States Copyright Office. For permissions to use the name or rules or for more information contact Sam Jackson, the copyright holder: 4675 E. Vermillion Ave., Kanab, UT 84741 lastcamp@kanab.net
What is Cowboy Poetry?
Sam Jackson wrote a series of articles, Lyrical Legends, for the Sun News in 2002, to help introduce readers to Cowboy Poetry.
His essay, Writing Cowboy Poetry, posted on another page, draws on the information in these articles.
First article in the series
There are only a hundred fifty more shopping days until the Western Legends Round-up, "Cowboy Poetry Rodeo," kicks off at the Old Barn Theater in Kanab Utah.
I'd like to use this time to give
readers some insider information about this fast growing folk art. We will
explore from its probable beginnings to what it is has become today, and give
some reasons why it should be continued. To keep things more interesting,
with each dose of cowboy poetry facts, I'll also treat you to some examples,
which will include classics by the old masters as well as work from our present
day cowboy poets. All of this, designed to entice a few into the pursuit of this
informative, entertaining and artistic genre.
Cowboy poetry's origins can be traced back over a thousand years (now, eat your
hearts out cowboys) to Scottish and Irish shepherds telling stories in song and
verse, usually in rhyme for ease of remembering. It was probably first
heard in this country when civil war veterans, many of them immigrants, found
themselves making a living as cowboys thousands of miles away from home and
family, and passing away the lonely hours with songs and poems of their
adventures, or stories reminiscent of loved ones, and days-gone-by.
Wallace McCrae's popular poem, Reincarnation is a good one for this first session. Wallace McRae manages a 30,000 acre cow-calf ranch in Forsyth, Montana, is frequently a featured performer at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada, and is the first Cowboy Poet to be awarded the National Heritage Award from the National Endowment for the Arts.
That should be enough said for
this first session. Enjoy!
Second article in the series
Howdy folks. The last time we visited, I was
telling you that; about 1000 years ago, a bunch of Celtic sheepherders
were probably the world' first "cowboy poets"!
Now, for those of you with whom I still have some credibility--read on: Although cowboy poetry was out there (mostly in song and ballad) it was relatively unknown prior to Hal Cannon, with an assist from the National Endowment for the Arts, organizing a "Cowboy Poet Gathering" at Elko Nevada in 1985. From there it began to gather momentum as cowboy poets slowly came "out of the closet." Although many had been writing for years, it seems they were embarrassed to admit it for any type of poetry was generally considered to be a "sissy hobby.". After noting the success at Elko and seeing how quickly "fame and fortune" could be obtained, the word "sissy" was quickly replaced with "macho" and the race was on.
This first group was quickly followed by a second, much larger, crowd who were new to the genre, but begin writing and performing their own brand of verse and wit. At this point "genuine died-in-the-wool" (no pun intended) cowboy poetry became somewhat diluted, but a bit more entertaining to general audiences as this new crop of bards were injecting a little more humor, and lets face it, when most folks go out for an evening's entertainment-they will accept a little bit of "the serious stuff, " but people want to laugh!
Many of the newcomers made a go of it, becoming successful writers entertainers and balladeers. Of course, others did not. Some of these "did-not's" had the desire but lacked the skills while others had the necessary skills but lacked the desire to put forth the required effort. I will write more on this at a later date.
That pretty well brings us up to the present time where we can now hear cowboy poetry spouting from under ten gallon hats across the width and breadth of North America. In fact-- if you happen to pass a pick-up truck driven by someone in a cowboy hat, talking to themselves, they may not be crazy but rather--just another cowboy poet memorizing lines as he guns it toward the next gathering. At last count (by Rope Burns, a cowboy poetry and music periodical) there are now somewhere between 2500 and 3000 cowboy poetry and western music festivals held annually.
Ok, here's your "poetic
desert" for this time, a classic written by Bruce
Kiskaddon in the 1920's, Pullin' Leather.
Read what John Shaver of the Cochise Cowboy Poetry and Music Gathering writes
about him: "There is a cowboy poet whose work has the absolute, real, bona
fide, gritty ring of experience and truth. Bruce Kiskaddon lived the life.
He wrangled, he roped, he rode, he wrecked, he suffered all kinds of
weather. He did not embellish the life. The meter was less than
technically perfect. But he remembers and re-creates the historic world of the
ranch and range of the late 19th and early 29th century. His words echo the ones
heard on the frontier."
Third article in the series
So far, we've talked about how and where Cowboy Poetry started, how it evolved to what it is today and where it might be heading. Before going much farther, let's back up a bit and try to define just what-in-the-heck this present day style cowboy poetry really is--- Here are the guidelines we use at the Western Legends Round-up, Cowboy Poetry Rodeo.
Cowboy Poetry??? What is it???
Over the years I've heard many
"discussions" on this elusive term and have arrived at the conclusion
that any attempt to tightly define "cowboy poetry" is as frivolous, as
trying to firm-up a definition of "pretty girl," for
both mean different things to different people. Any explanation beyond just
saying' "It's an informal way of telling stories, usually in rhyme"
becomes garbled and quite controversial. So in an attempt to explain
"what it is"---let's see "what it is not!" Cowboy Poetry,
is not:
Just about cowboys! Any subject about country living, ranch life, farm animals or associated activities, is fair game.
Written and recited only about cowboys! This work can come from anyone who feels they can, either through experience or research, realistically address a pastoral subject.
Just about the West! Geography has little to do with it.
Just about one particular time! Keep in mind that one tick of the clock turns "today" into "yesterday."
Just rhyming verse! It can be written in many different ways such as; prose, ballads, stories or songs.
An appropriate name!
Many others might describe it more accurately, however, it's the one
that stuck and the one that will be forever used.
Now in a little more depth----
Is "Cowboy Poetry" the right name?
The first part; "Cowboy," tends to be misleading, for cowboy poetry,
as we've just explained, is not written solely by, nor about, cowboys.
"Poetry" is also somewhat of a misnomer, for Cowboy Poetry may be
written in any format the author might choose, be it song, poetry, free verse,
or whimsical nonsense. Perhaps a more fitting title might be "Western Verse,"
or "Country Prose". Certainly a title not quite so restrictive
would be less confusing. But it's too late to shut the gate now, for
whether we like it or not, the term "Cowboy Poetry" is here to stay.
What time period can Cowboy Poetry be written about?
Here there should be no restrictions, we may write stories about the future, the
present or the past.
Is Cowboy Poetry only written about the West?
No, geography has little to do with it. Every area of the world has its
rural life and is fair game. As mentioned, people in other countries were
writing, memorizing and entertaining with so called "Cowboy Poetry"
long
before it caught on in western America. A Cowboy Poetry poem setting could well
be in downtown New York City.
What subjects may we include?
We'll, we could say: "If it's 'Country' it's fair game" and can
be called "Cowboy Poetry," but whoaaa hoss--- now we must define
"Country" and--- on it goes-------------
Well I reckon that's enough larnin' for today, so my suggested poetic cowboy
cuisine for this time would be a lyrical verse, "When the World Gets Out of
Focus," by Carlos Ashley from his book; That Spotted Sow and Other Texas
Hill Country Ballads.
Fourth article in the series
Last time around we discussed;
"What cowboy poetry is" (or, isn't). Today let's talk about why it is
important that we continue writing and presenting it to the public at every
opportunity.
Each generation has its own unique experiences to be recorded, then passed
along. Some good, some bad, but all should be documented and remembered for
their own value. We have history books and other documents in which major
events are recorded, but they cannot devote the space required to tell personal
stories of our every-day lives. Many of us keep diaries and journals, but
they are private documents not meant to be shared outside the family. So, in
many cases, Cowboy Poetry can fill the gap. One thing to keep in mind: no matter
the importance of the event that happens in our life, "If it isn't
documented today-it will be forgotten tomorrow!"
To many folks, cowboy poetry has a basic, personal appeal. It has become a true
American art form-honest, straightforward, understandable. Cowboy poets
are noble (can be spelled No-Bull) when they have something to say-- they say
it!
Perhaps none has put it into words better than cowgirl poet Barney Nelson----
"American literature has been searching for the voice of the land and its
people for three hundred years. Academia has been slow to recognize that
voice because it was masked in rebel grammar and metaphors it didn't
understand. But today rural culture and grassroots American literature is
gaining respect. Rural people have brought poetry out of the classroom and back
into the mainstream."
Sadly, "The ways of the Old West" seem to be fast disappearing and
some (perhaps the majority) of Americans, living outside of the West, are
thinking: "The sooner-the-better"! It seems as though domestic
animals might be intruding upon, their "Playgrounds." Perhaps Cowboy
Poetry can help
them better understand the West, it's people and culture, and convince them that
as we try to earn our living here, we are the most proficient of
environmentalists and caretakers of the land, and as an afterthought
remind them that "The food they eat didn't grow on the supermarket
shelves!"
I'm fairly well acquainted with
some folks who raised Rambouillet rams for a number of years in the Big Lost
River valley of central Idaho. Each Fall the wife would show them at the Eastern
Idaho State Fair at Blackfoot, and as the public walked though the show barns
she was often asked some fairly
nonsensical questions about animals. However one in particular
"took-the-cake." Here's a story that was written about the encounter.
It's called-----
Where's the
What??
These last fifty years we
have seen quite a change,
Folks movin' to town from their home-on-the-range.
They buy fancy duds and a three story condo,
forget western verse, now they'd rather read 'Rondeau.'
They visit the homestead on Christmas and such,
but other than that, usually stay out'a touch.
Exposure to nature amounts to no more
than trips to the Zoo, and from shelves at a store.
Comes next generation, most still are surmisin',
plums grow on the trees 'fore they go into pies'un,
when savoring taste from a luscious lamb chop
remembers their image 'fore steaks in the shop.
These folks, then have kids, who'er leavin' the nest,
but! -- stayin in town where the gatherin's best.
and year after year, all become less aware
the grub that they eat-must be grown somewhere.
A trip to the market leaves nothing to want.
From shelves come the good life, and nobody's gaunt.
So in a short time, it is 'history forgotten'
that food must be grown somewhere 'fore it gets boughtin.'
Now, on with the tale this rhyme's leading too,
though seemingly scary, she swears it is true.
My wife had her sheep, in some pens, at the fair.
The crowd had some questions she's answering there.
When a nice looking couple called her to one side;
on vacation from Boston, they'd toured nation wide.
No less, it's the first time for them at a fair
and learning some things they were never aware.
'Wheat ground into flour', 'A hen laid an egg'
events such as this, in their knowledge was vague.
They watched as a beef had been judged in the ring,
amazed that a 'T-bone' could come from "that thing!"
There were horses and piggys and goats in the barn
and a lady was spinnin' some wool into yarn.
Then mentioned how they were impressed with the skills
of folks who had bottled the corn, beets and dills.
And quite taken back when that soft yellow butter
popped out'a the milk, that came out'a that udder!
and though very impressed, by her Rambouillet Rams-
Could she point to the pens where they're keepin' the Spams?
© Sajac '94
Fifth article in the series
Ok, let's recap what we've discussed in the first four columns:
Where and why cowboy poetry possibly originated: With Celtic Shepherds.
Where and why it's modern day "come-back" started: From Elko it has now spread to over 3000 Gatherings.
What cowboy poetry is and is not: Is not just about cows and cowboys.
Why we should continue
writing and reciting: It's informative as well as entertaining, and
it preserves the stories of a way of life.
Today, lets talk about cowboy poetry as entertainment.
On Thursday, August 22, 2002 (the second day of Western Legends Round-up) Mr. Colen Sweeten and I will be holding morning and afternoon Cowboy Poetry writing and presentation workshops at the Old Barn Theater at Parrys Lodge. Both writers and listeners of poetry are invited-It's fairly obvious why we might want the writers to attend but Why?, you might ask, are we inviting the listening public? Well, like so many other things in life, the better it is understood, the more acceptable it becomes and the more enjoyment we garner from it.
I've attended hundreds of Cowboy Poetry Gatherings thoughout the Western US and Canada. I've experienced "Good ones" and "Not so good ones." The "Good ones" were those that presented talented entertainers, worth the price of a ticket. The others placed themselves in the "Not-so-good" category by allowing people on stage to entertain who should have been out in the barnyard practicing! Others were on stage solely as "friends-of-the-boss" and still others just because they were "Good-ol'-boys" who someone felt "deserved a chance." A noble gesture, to be sure, but not good business.
Here's the rub-these
"Not-so-good-ol'-boys" can drive more people away from cowboy poetry
in 5 minutes than a dozen "good entertainers" can gather up in a month
of Sundays. People usually come to show to be entertained and don't want to go
away bored, or worse, embarrassed, and you can bet your bottom dollar that if
either of those scenarios occur, they won't make the same mistake twice and sure
as shootin' will share their opinions with friends.
One other thing while we're on the subject of pleasing audiences: If serious
poetry is written and presented well, the public will accept a certain amount of
it, however, serious poetry is better enjoyed being read, or listened to, at
home. When folks go out on the town they want to be
entertained and the best way to do that is: Make me laugh!!
don't matter much how, just Make me laugh!! and I'll overlook many other
failings. Put a hat on backwards, pull a silly face, roll up in a ball on the
floor--whatever-- but if you make me laugh--I'll leave entertained, asking for
more and telling anyone who will listen "how great cowboy poetry is!"
So with that said, how about a
"Un-serious" poem this time around?
HASSAYAMPA
Some call me a "prevaricator;"
Some say I'm a liar.
Either way, it means the truth
Ain't somethin' I admire.
They say, "Take anything he says
"With a great big pinch of salt."
Yup, veracity eludes me,
But folks, it ain't my fault!
There's a crick called "Hassayampa"
Down Arizona way,
And drinkin' from it makes you lie-
Least, that's what people say...
The day was hot and dusty
When I happened 'pon its banks;
When I spied that cool clear water,
I knelt, and offered thanks.
Then I stretched myself out
And upon my belly lay;
I'd just gotten me a mouthful
When someone hollered, "Hey!"
Twas a feller on a big black hoss;
The man looked mean and hard.
He said, "Tell me somethin', sonny-
"Do ya know where ya are?
"This here's the Hassayampa,"
He said, pointin' at the water.
"Ya might consider drinkin' here,
"But I don't think ya oughter!"
"This crick can steal the truth from ya
"Like candy from a baby;
"Ya'd be a liar from now on,
"And son, I don't mean maybe!"
"Falsehoods, fibs, 'n' windies'd
"Become yer stock in trade;
"Now son, I hope yer seein'
"The mistake ya almost made!"
"That liar's brand is tough to wear,
"Cause a man's word is his bond;
"Ya'd be suspicioned by yer pards,
" 'N' those of whom yer fond."
"No matter where ya'd roam,
"Ya'd not escape yer vicious lies;
"Folks'd know just what ya are
"By lookin' in yer eyes!"
"Ya could swear on a stack of bibles,
"But they'd still require proof,
" 'N' son, that ain't no life to live-
"A stranger to the truth!"
"I think I caught ya just in time;
"Ya didn't drink.....I hope?
I swallered hard, forced a grin,
And politely answered..........."NOPE."© Charley Sierra
Charley Sierra says "I've been writin' poetry for 32 years now, and 12 of them in Nevada. I'm married to a Nevada native, and we live on a little spread north of Reno. I won the Reno Rodeo Cowboy Poetry Contest in 1995, for my poem "Desolation Chili." I love recitin' to folks with a sense of humor. [You can read about Charley Sierra and more of his poems here.]
.
Sixth article in the series
Ok, Cowboy bard pards, thus far, this column has talked about everything from the origin of cowboy poetry to where it has evolved today. Now I think it's about high time to learn something about writing cowboy poetry-- here goes--
Most cowboy poetry can be classified as Occidental (however, changing the O to an A might also describe some of it!) "Occidental poetry" is: "The expression of thoughts which awaken the higher and nobler emotions, or their opposites, in words whose rhythm tends toward uniformity or regularity, rather than toward variety." In other words, most cowboy poetry is meant to have rhyme and meter (whether it receives it or not will be discussed later).
It's been said that "One can achieve poetic greatness, either in his own sight alone or in the opinion of others, without knowledge of the craft." Unfortunately, and to the dismay of many audiences, some poets have a tendency to confuse those two measures of greatness. This is not to suggest that a BS in English literature is required to write cowboy poetry (although some BS is a definite attribute) there are basic rules which should be followed, some I'm listing here which we will discuss in depth later:
1- Choose a subject that you know something about or be willing to do some serious research.
2-Be original, trust your own vision of how something should be said.
3-Choose a rhythm pattern and stick with it through out the poem.
4-Use only correct rhymes, leave "near rhymes" for the song writers.
5-Design the first verse to get attention.
6-"Rough-out" the main body of the poem.
7-End the poem with a verse that "pulls it all together."
8-Go back and "edit"-"edit"-"edit"!!!.
9-Read the poem out loud a dozen times then re-edit!
10-Don't try to do this all in one setting.
I once wrote a poem about "writing poems," that perhaps would be relevant here. Note that I don't always follow my own advice! So long 'till next time. Sajac
RHYMIN'
I've been asked many times about rhymin',
how does one compose lines of verse?
Some folks might surmise, that poets are wise,
could be that it's just the reverse!
A poem is quite similar to sculpture,
it first must be formed in your mind.
Determine the aim, you'd like to proclaim,
which fans you are trying to find.
Use caution when choosing the subject
on which your new lyric will dwell.
Be sure to pick one, 'bout things you have done,
if not, you should research it well.
I'm alluding to my methods only,
we each have a different forte'.
For example; some write in seclusion,
while others prefer the café.
So, get out your pencil and paper.
Note how it will start and then end.
Next jot down enough, for in-between stuff,
now you have an outline, my friend.
Start chippin' and filin' and grindin',
and don't be afraid to be bold.
Just add words an' change'em, erase'em, arrange'em
until what you mean, has been told.
Don't worry too long at one setting,
fatigue doesn't help us reflect,
and sure ain't conducive, to writin' exclusive,
those stanzas demandin' respect.
An item of utmost importance
is; keepin' the theme sharp and clear.
Pay little attention, to mundane convention.
pen just what you want'em to hear.
One thing that will give more enjoyment,
as novice scans poetic line;
is; cadence, some folks call it meter.
Enhances the rhythm design.
You might add a bit of clean humor.
If subject is 'lite,' add in more.
Be careful you don't make it foolish,
that isn't what good verse is for.
Use caution how you set the words in,
as 'sequence' can change the result.
If writing an ode to a "House Cat" -
'transposing' could mean some insult!
In ending I'll pass on this adage,
(a favorite one of my Pa's)
"A poem's like a good lookin' woman-
The best of them have a few flaws!"
© Sajac
[See more of Sam Jackson's poems about Cowboy Poetry in the BAR-D collection of Poems About Cowboy Poetry.]
Seventh article in the series
Let's get started with these two items:
1-Choose a subject that you know something about or be willing to do some serious research.
2-Be original, trust your own vision of how something should be said.
Obviously, the first thing you must do before writing a cowboy poem is pick a subject. How to do that? To quote the famous English poet, William Wordsworth, "The wish is father of the thought." So there must be a wish, a desire to express yourself on a subject. I seldom have any trouble finding subjects to write about as they literally "pop-into-my-head" sometimes an entire poem, sometimes the ending, the beginning line, or sometimes just a subject. When this happens I quickly make myself a written note (notice I did not say "mental," although I was blessed with a photographic memory-no
film for my model has been produced since the early 1940's-so when I want to remember something longer than a nanosecond, I write it down). This next statement may sound a little to romantic for budding cowboy poets but "mood" is very important when writing, perhaps "inspiration" is a better word, for I must be inspired before writing anything worth sculpting into a readable, sensical (new word) poem. So depending on how your psyche is rigged, put yourself in surroundings that tend to inspire you. For some this might mean doing something as spectacular as going to the mountains by yourself for a
day and watching the clouds roll by-- for others, spending an afternoon out in the corral, letting the sounds and smells act as poetic stimuli. Whatever it takes-do it!
The next point is: "originality." Although you can get some new idea's from listening to, and reading poems, by others, an original thinker has a much better chance of becoming a successful poet. Second rate poets distrust their own vision and often resort to-if not actually plagiarism, then borrowing from others. This is a dangerous way to go for it can quickly cause the poet to loose sight of stating their own desires. Even using some of the overworked, but seemingly popular phrases such as "riding for the brand" and "working for short pay," as poetic, and macho as they might sound, are poison to the mind of the budding poet and could lead to a mental quagmire that is difficult to emerge from. When you have something to say-Say it! and in your own words! This often requires resorting to deep thought and diligent searching of your thesaurus but believe me, it will eventually pay off. "Ye shall reap what ye shall sow" could be relevant
here, however as "first-rate" cowboy poets, we don't use those old, overworked phrases.
To make a point on avoiding "borrowing," let's use the poem "Baby" by Harry Graham and rework it into cowboy verse, then see how we feel about the accomplishment.
Baby
Baby in the caldron fell-
See the grief on mother's brow!
Mother loved her darling well.
Darling's quite hard-boiled now.
plagiarized, it might look like this:
Dogie's
Dogie in the quick sand fell
see the grief on mother cow!
Mother loved her darling well.
calf is swallowed up by now.
Ok, after that little doozie I'd better quit and hope you have recovered in time to read next week's column when we'll discuss choosing rhythm patterns, syllable count and correct rhymes.
Note of interest: As part of the Western Legends Roundup, Mr. Colen Sweeten, a prominent poet, originally from Malad Idaho, now living in Springville Utah, will oversee two Cowboy Poetry workshops, the first from 9:30 am to 11:00 am, the second from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm on Thursday, August 22nd at the Old Barn Theater, Parrys Lodge in Kanab. They are free and you're all invited.
© Sajac
Eighth article in the series
In a previous column I stated: "Poets should only write of things they know." Taking that one step farther and applying it to "discussions on writing poetry," I'm left with little "wiggle-room" should an attempt be made to baffle you with such intriguing grammatical tidbits as metric feet; accent patterns; iambic v/s trochaic verse; assonance; ictus and other weird sounding stuff that's connected to the more sophisticated poetic crowd, which I know nothing about-and have little desire to learn. In this discussion we'll touch on just enough Rhyme and Meter basics to make our work "sound good and read easy," what more do we really need? Here goes----
"Rhythm" is the successive rise and fall of sounds, in pitch, stress, and/or speed depending heavily on word accents and pauses by the speaker. "Meter" is the comparatively regular rhythm in poetry. Once the writer has determined these two modes they should be maintained throughout the poem. (changing rhythm patterns in the middle of a poem would be no less disruptive than changing the melody in the middle of a song).
Both rhythm and meter, are in part, determined by the syllable count in each line, and a critical attribute to cowboy poetry if the poem is ever intended for a reading audience. Not quite so important if it is written primarily to be recited by the author, for as previously stated; an experienced entertainer can usually put enough vocal emphasis in the right places to make even a poorly written poem entertaining and pleasing to the ear.
Example #1 is written with the correct syllable count in each stanza. #2 is not.
example #1 The frightened little Hereford calf
lay trembling in the thicket.
The Wolf had snatched him even though
his mama tried to kick it!
And----
example #2 The very frightened little ol' Hereford calf
lay trembling in the thicket,
The Wolf had snatched him, even though,
his mama had tried hard to kick-it!
It's quite apparent which sounds best and reads easiest.
Just as a constant syllable count (rhythm) makes a poem sound better and read smoother, so too, does a formal stanza arrangement make it read easier. One accepted way of doing this is indentation (or the lack thereof) of the rhyming lines (as a note of interest, this formal line organization helps me a great deal while composing a poem as I can more readily see the words that I must rhyme too) If we wrote example #1 in a standard letter format it would look like this: The frightened little Hereford calf lay trembling in the thicket. the Wolf had snatched him even though his mama tried to kick
it. Much more difficult to work with.
Note: For those of you who might be inclined toward "technicalities," a single line of poetry is called a "Verse". A series of lines, formally arranged as part of a poem, is called a "Stanza." Oh yes, and to further confuse the issue-a two line "Stanza" is a "Couplet." But enough of that---- on with the show--Stanza patterns can be arranged in this manner: 1,1,2-1,1,2
Joe and Curley's spendin' time
twistin' stories into rhyme,
an' Jim has found a taxidermy book.
Just so happens that ol' Newt
shot a bobcat on the butte.
a crafty scheme is shortly undertook.
or a 1,1,1,2---1,1,1,2 triple rhyme might be set down this way;
O'er the cedar flecked horizon
comes a full moon slowly risin'
as ol' Jake starts balladizin'
'bout a lad who drifted West.
Seems he growed up in the city,
lived a life of ease, but pretty-
soon was longin' for more gritty-
things to give his life some zest!
'Nuff fer now-Next week we're gonna use the entire column to talk about the very important subject of "Word rhymes," showing how some poet's "rhyme rhyght" and some poet's don't. Oh yes and here's an assignment: There are over 50 words in the English language that do not have rhyme mates-how many can you name?
'Till next time--stay out'ta the sun! Sajac
© Sajac
Ninth article in the series
Ok Pards, who came up with all the words having no rhyme mates? No-well how many of you came up with 10?---5? Here is a partial list from the Poets Craft Book: amongst; avenge; revenge; bulb; film; porch; wasp; breadth; depth; eighth; fifth; forth; ninth; sixth; width; wolf, too many to list here, so, if you are having no luck at all finding a rhyme mate for a particular word-keep in mind there may not be one! If that is the case, don' t tarnish your work with something 'close' -- go back and change the word, even if it means re-writing the verse.
Using correct rhymes
I had listened to cowboy poetry but a short time, when it became evident there were areas that could be improved! What better method than the time tested good old American way-- Competition!! Enter: Cowboy Poetry Rodeo, and these Lyrical Legends columns have been written for the same purpose. The genre of cowboy poetry is no different than any other entertainment media: "Quality improves-- audience grows."
By becoming better poets and entertainers, the message is heard by a wider audience, gaining accolades as well as affecting pocket books.
With that said, let's talk about rhyming. Many types of poetry, in fact the majority, is not written to rhyme at all. I have no problem with that-- my quarrel is with those who compose works that is meant to rhyme, but does not.
I recently came across an excellent example of "how not to compose rhyming poetry." The story line was acceptable, however that quality was quickly diluted as the author proceeded to break every rhyming rule in the book using such rhyme mates as-- steep/feet; hot/knots; swells/hell; flared/stares; control/go; down/pond; last/crash; side/alive; peek/trees; snow/snow; side/alive (again); trails/tail; side/side; ranch/chance (close, but no cigar); and finally, fast/grass. (Note: just as some folks have the misfortune of being color blind, so too, there are the rhyme deaf among us, which could be the case here. However, even that handicap should not keep a good poet from putting out acceptable work as a simple way around the problem would be asking a peer for a critique prior to publishing. It would certainly make things easier on the ear of the average cowboy poetry fan.
Rhyme deals exclusively with sounds and has nothing to do with spelling. Correct rhymes can either be spelled alike: ate/ plate/ mate-- or differently; ate/ strait/ freight. Some words, called "eye rhymes"-are spelled alike and look alike, but pronounced differently and are not rhymes at all: earth/ hearth; cow/ blow; finger/ ginger/ singer. Another often seen but definite no-no is attempting to rhyme words ending in "n" with those ending in "m." Still another failure is trying to rhyme a singular word with a plural. An example: measure/ treasures. Seeing near rhymes used by most song writers does not make them acceptable in rhymed poetry as you don't have the music to hide miscues. To quote from The Poets Craft Book; "Slovenly rhyming is one of the sure signs of mediocrity in versification."More do's and don'ts: Never use a rhyme word twice in a poem. Never try to use identical words as rhyme mates, and something worth mentioning again; when using a word difficult to rhyme-to, change the word, even if it means changing the entire verse. Many successful poets use "two-word" rhymes such as; satin/flat in; Quentin/went in. Last but not least, here's an easy to follow rule--When writing cowboy poetry, forget using "good-English" cuz it jist ain't needed--in fact in most cases---not recommended. Write your poetry in the same dialect as if you, or your story characters, were doing
the talking. Contractions such as "ain't," "can't,, "I've,, "gonna,, can be used whenever necessary for diction authenticity and correct syllable count.One final word for those of you who might still have doubts as to whether "going the extra mile to use the correct rhythm, meter, syllable count and proper rhyming is worth it." Carefully read the works of Andrew Barton (Banjo) Patterson and Robert Service.
We'll wind things up next week by discussing first verse design; Roughing-out the main body of the poem; Ending with a verse that pulls it all together, then how to effectively edit your own work.
Thanks for your time and remember that you are all welcome to attend the Western Legends Round-up, Cowboy Poetry "free" workshop at the Old Barn Theater Kanab Utah, 9:30 am, August 22nd and the Cowboy Poetry Rodeo competition on August 23rd and 24th.For more information go to www.westernlegendsroundup.com
© Sajac
Final article in the series
Recapping our discussions on writing cowboy poetry; up to this point you have:
Chosen a subject you are familiar with.
Confidence that it is original, and will be written in your own words and style.
A basic understanding of rhythm patterns, meter, syllable count and stanza arrangements.
Made a commitment not to follow the 'easy rhyming trail.
So--moving right along:
Let's begin by discussing a couple of subtle marketing twists that can help a poem find readers. A good Title is important and serves a dual purpose; it (you hope) will give some hint as to what the poem is about and, if "catchy," will entice readers to sample the poem's contents, then after attracting the reader, an interesting and thought-provoking first verse can help draw them further in.
It goes without saying that: if the main body of the poem is not well written, nothing short of an outright bribe (or discovery that the author is the reader's long-lost cousin) can urge a discriminating patron on to the end. So rough-out the body of the poem to the best of your ability, making every effort to see that the last verse summarizes (and ends) your story! Don't treat your audience like they are from outer space, one verse does not have to explain the next; let them draw some conclusions on their own. Of
course, like all things, don't overdo this either way.
As you write, don't attempt perfection the first time around, for prior to publishing, the successful poet will have spent far more time editing than writing the original manuscript. The rule here is edit-edit---edit---then edit some more! Read each verse to your self over and over, then read it out loud, again and again. If you intend to recite
the poem this will help you recognize areas where certain word combinations may be difficult to speak.
Never attempt to write a poem of any length (or depth) at one setting--tired brains are not the poet's best friend. Take your time, if you run into a mental block, put the poem aside and come back to it later. Some writers I know have a dozen poems going at once and skip from one to the other as the mood strikes them. Nothing makes me squirm in my seat more than a poet walking on stage, proudly announcing that "I wrote this next one on my way to the gathering yesterday! Guess I'll try it out on you!" Lord forbid! Perhaps some can successfully do that, but, so far, I haven't crossed their trails.
Finally; if you have the resources, record the poem, invite someone to join you (no, not your mother or wife) and listen with a critical ear.In closing, I'd ask you to keep this in mind; the suggestions for composing cowboy poetry that have been passed along in these articles are those than work best for me and my style certainly isn't for everyone. To those who have followed this clumsy attempt at poetic tutoring: if you gained something from it, I wish you success in your writing adventures. If you learned nothing, that places you in a category shared by few and I apologize for taking your time.
OK, sage bards, "step up to the creek, quench your poetic thirst, and...stay outta the 'quick-sand'!"
S. A. Jackson
August 14, 2002
Post Script: I leave you with a final thought: If you like writing poetry, don't limit yourself to just one genre. Experiment with others, look around, there are many interesting things in (and out) of this old world worthy of your poetic talent.
Beyond?I gaze into the evening sky
to contemplate its cosmic dust,
then wonder why: I wonder why?
A thought drifts by; Was God unjust?
The power of the intellect
that He saw fit to thus bestow
On man, the gifted architect,
will let us muse -- but never know.
Try as we might, to comprehend
our reasoning cannot respond
to; "What begins-must also end!"
But yet, cannot! -- So what's beyond?
This barricade seems well defined,
we scratch our heads and though confused,
still venture theories from our mind--
Our Mentor smiles, a bit amused.
These questions that now cause us strife,
lie in a section of His book
we cannot view in earthly life
but in the next-- may freely look.
© 2001, Sajac
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