This month, the cowboy poets reflect on the crucial sensory ingredients that combine to make memorable poetry as they answer this question posed by @carteagraphy: “How much do you think about the sound/music versus the imagery of your poem?”

This month, the cowboy poets discuss artistic license in poems as they answer a question posed by The Man Who Didn’t Shoot Liberty Valance: “Could you comment on how you approach decisions about taking artistic license in your writing? Also, could you comment on any historical poems you’ve researched where you’ve found the legend has outpaced the truth or the truth is in fact stranger than fiction?”

Respected buckaroo, horseman, and ranch manager Jeff Mundell advocates for the role of the horseback cowboy in a collaborative, future-oriented, regenerative agriculture movement. Read Jeff’s essay about shifting “The Cowboy” archetype with conversations across occupational cultures that connect story-wise cowboys, data-wise scientists, and the living flora and fauna that tie them together.

Chrissy Menicucci Benna's experience with the poetry and music of western artists transformed her understanding of western ways of life, even after a lifetime spent in Nevada. A memorable moment hearing poet Paul Zarzyski perform spurred her to become an ardent supporter of the Western Folklife Center and an engaged board member. Read about why Chrissy calls the WFC "a beloved treasure" in the second of our board spotlights.

Whether they’re herding, heading, guarding…or sharing a beer at the end of a long day…some dogs just make an impression. This month, the poets reflect on the cattle dogs (and companion dogs) that have come their way, answering Crazy About Canines’ question, “Who was the best canine companion you ever had the pleasure of working with?”

Western Folklife Center Board Member Kristi Overgaard (proprietor of Oniya Ranch) answered a few questions for us about her personal story, what draws her to the WFC, and why she thinks the WFC is important for everyone. For Kristi, it’s about culture, traditions, talent…and finding that different pace.