Badger Clark
Sun and Saddle Leather
"Sun and Saddle Leather" by Badger Clark is a collection of poems that evokes the spirit of the American West, written in the early 20th century. The book captures the life and experiences of cowboys, emphasizing themes of freedom, nature, and the rugged beauty of the Western landscape. Through a series of lyrical verses, Clark pays homage to the cowboy culture and the simplicity of their lives amid the vast open lands. The poetry within "Sun and Saddle Leather" reflects the emotions and thoughts of the cowboy experience — from the thrill of riding across the plains to the poignant recollections of love and loss. Each poem presents a unique perspective on life as a cowboy, conveying feelings of camaraderie, nostalgia, and yearning for freedom. Notable pieces include "A Cowboy's Prayer," which expresses gratitude for the beauty of creation and the cowboy's way of life, and "The Lost Pardner," which poignantly explores themes of friendship and grief. The collection is characterized by its vivid imagery and celebration of the unbridled spirit of the West, making it an enduring tribute to cowboy life.