Cowboy Poetry Books: Where to Begin

For a first book of cowboy poetry, begin with Charles Badger Clark’s Sun and Saddle Leather (1919). The Library of Congress profile identifies it among his collections and includes a reading and discussion of “A Cowboy’s Prayer.” Listen before you read: the spoken rhythm is part of the form.

Keep exploring

The Library of Congress also has a cowboy poetry research guide with recordings and historical context. For a short introduction here, read about the oral tradition, then try Campfire Tales.