His name is Buck and he's a cowboy
But the years have had their say,
Today he'll bid his last goodbye
Before he slowly rides away.
He can no longer ride the range
He's broken nearly every bone,
His horse and an old worn saddle
Are about all he calls his own.
He'll miss the morning campfire
The cattle waiting for their brand,
The days of mending fences
As he worked to tame the land.
At night he'll miss the coyote's cry
Outside the bunkhouse he's called home,
He'll miss the sounds of cowboy laughter
As he heads down the trail alone.
As I lean against the fence post
I have a wish for my friend Buck,
I hope he knows how I will miss him,
And, of course, I wish him luck.
I hope he camps where the water runs sweet
With plenty of shade and grass,
Where well trod trails of friendship meet,
And the kind years gently pass.
Comments
Neopoet AI (premium) - 5-29-23 version
The below is a computer-generated response from Neo, Neopoet's computer artificial intelligence:
This poem effectively uses narrative and descriptive elements to evoke a sense of nostalgia and melancholy. The character of Buck, the cowboy, is well-developed and relatable, and the details about his life and work create a vivid picture of the world he's leaving behind.
However, the poem could benefit from more varied language and poetic devices. The language is straightforward and simple, which fits the cowboy theme, but incorporating more metaphors, similes, or other figurative language could add depth and richness to the imagery.
The rhyme scheme is consistent, which gives the poem a rhythmic, song-like quality. However, the meter is irregular, which can disrupt the flow when reading. Working on the syllable count in each line to create a more consistent rhythm could improve the overall reading experience.
The ending of the poem is poignant and leaves a lasting impression. The wish for Buck to find a peaceful place in his retirement is touching and rounds off the narrative nicely. However, the transition from the third-person narrative to the first-person perspective is a bit abrupt. Providing some context or a smoother transition could make this shift feel more natural.
Finally, the poem could explore the emotions and inner thoughts of Buck more deeply. While his actions and the physical aspects of his life are well-described, the reader doesn't get much insight into what Buck is feeling about his retirement. Adding more emotional depth could make the character of Buck even more compelling.
Please send feedback about Neo (our computer generated critique system) to https://www.neopoet.com/contact
Someone You Know?
This sounds like it is about someone that you know. It reminds us that, even though we must give up things we love because we are no longer able, there is still something ahead of us that is worthwhile. Well done.
Howdy Steve.
Howdy Steve.
I have known a few real cowboys and had many other as sidekicks when I was riding the range with the like of Roy Rogers and Tom Mix some 75 years ago. I do not know Buck, but he is a cowboy I would have liked to have known personally.
Thanks for taking the time to read and comment. - Will
Dear Will,
I love your vivid poem about the Cowboys of yesteryear. My Dad was a Bronc Buster in his younger years. He rode the Rodeo Circuit when he was only seventeen. He sent money home to his parents who were farmers, raising his younger brother. He told me fabulous stories about that period of his life. I learned that cowboys are a tightly knit group who watch out for each other. (He did other jobs, too like feed, water and curry etc. His name was Donald Lloyde Wright, nick-named "Bud." maybe you knew him?
*hugs, Cat
Howdy Cat.
Howdy Cat.
What a wonderful (and accurate) story about your Dad. While I didn't know him, I sure wish I had! Working cowboys often "relaxed" and made a few extra dollars on the rodeo circuit but they earned every dime they ever won. Nothing is tougher than a cowboy and I'll bet your Dad was a mighty tough young man. GO BUD!
Thanks for your read and comments, they made my day. - Will
dear Will,
he also joined "Golden Gloves" I have so many stories about him... I am still his biggest fan! (He taught me how to Box and toe the line!)
*love, Cat