Artistic Interpretations with Margaret "Cowboy Poetry" (Photography byMerri Meide of "The Equestrian Vagabond")

The cowboy is a symbol of America's wild, western frontier, a rugged man set in the past, with an image steeped in intrigue and a history that has reached mythical proportions.  Today's cowboy bears some resemblance to his predecessor, but a lot has changed.

Instead of leading you around by the belt buckle, I am setting you free to explore the vast terrain of cowboy poetry.  An artist or a poem I admire may not be your "cup of tea" - or should I say "flask of whiskey"?

Few people imagine the rugged cowboy reciting, let alone writing, poetry.  Truth is, it has been going on for over a century.  Traditional examples of cowboy poetry are rhymed and metered, reflecting the world in which the cowboy lives.

Jack "Trey" Allen's poem, "What It Is"  “HERE” does a fine job explaining the nuances of what cowboy poetry is.

The "Bar-D Ranch" offers an index of cowboy poetry "HERE". (cursor down past the Sponsors to the "Index of Poems and Songs"  Have fun exploring these poets.  All are copyrighted and I didn't have permission to post here.  I assure you, if you take the time, you will fast find numerous favorites.  I hope they inspire you.  If you find a poet that tickles your fancy, be sure to link it for us to enjoy as well.

My Toad's, I invite you to write cowboy or .... cowgirl Poetry.  !!   .......SLIDING STOP ---

COWGIRL poetry?  Partner, you heard me correctly.  It is alive and well.  Click on the following title to read one of my personal favorites: "All That is Left", by "cowgirl" poet Virginia Bennett (cursor to the top to read about her - this link showcases her poetry).

Amblin' over to another site, I truly enjoyed the "Women of the Wild West".  Their poem "Big Boobs Ain't So Hot" will surely turn the corner of your lips.

Today's challenge is to write your own "Cowboy/girl Poetry", but unless you walk in boots dirty with manure, live in the West, and follow meter and rhyme, your poetry will be considered "contemporary" at best - or simply, not authentic.

 Therefore, I am calling our poetry "Cowboy Poetry LITE".

Don't you LOVE the FABULOUS photography?  It has been shared here with permission by Merri Melde, a horse photographer, writer, photojournalist, artist, and endurance horse rider - just to name a few of this amazing woman's accomplishments (I don't think she writes poetry, but maybe she will surprise us).  I have followed her blog for quite a while now, "The Equestrian Vagabond" and her photography site "The Equestrian Vagabond".

Write in any style you please.  It doesn't have to be in the traditional rhythm and rhyme.  Let your creativity ride the wind.  What you MUST do is write an original poem using one of Merri Melde's images shared here.  Factual historical themes relating to the west of yesterday are perfect, as are poems featuring daily life of the modern cowboy/girl or ranch hand.  One may even contemplate the terrain - just be sure to tie it all in to our theme.

I challenge you who have never tried on a cowboy hat to imagine (research by all means) a poem and bring something to feed and warm our minds 'round the ol' campfire (a.k.a. Mr. Linky).

Write as many poems, use as many images as you like.  Remember, we always have "Open Link Monday" and I warmly embrace late entries.

Again, all poetry must be original and written for this prompt.  Please include the name of our wonderful photographer, Merri Melde, and link to her website and blog if you use her photography on your blog.  I look forward to your Artistic Interpretations of Cowboy Poetry LITE.