My Grandfather is a Cowboy - January 23, 2024 by Sharon Waller Knutson

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Cyberwit.net (January 23, 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 136 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 8119654137
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-8119654130
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 6.5 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.5 x 0.34 x 8.5 inches

The review of Sharon Waller Knutson's work paints a vivid and enthusiastic picture of her literary achievements, particularly in her most recent work, My Grandfather is a Cowboy. Sharon's narrative successfully captivates readers, drawing them into her life as a high seas roller. This indicates a compelling storytelling ability that keeps readers immersed. Sharon's love, respect, and understanding of both nature and humanity are highlighted, adding a layer of authenticity and emotional resonance to the narrative. 

My Grandfather is a Cowboy captures the essence of a grandfather's life as a cowboy and the passage of time. The tactile description of calloused hands from roping cattle and worn-out boots and belt buckle from breaking wild horses provides a vivid image of rugged and hardworking lifestyle. The transition to the present, where the grandfather has a bum leg and limits the children's access to the ranch, adds a layer of vulnerability and a sense of changing roles. The fear of the rodeo stock losing their wild nature if fed apples by the children adds a touch of humor and showcases the grandfather's continued concern for the work, even with physical limitations. Overall, it's a poignant portrayal of generational shifts and the enduring impact of a cowboy's life on family dynamics.

My Grandfather is a Cowboy

As a child, with soft fingers
I trace his hands, calloused
from roping cattle, his boots
and belt buckle, worn out
from breaking wild horses.
By the time I am born,
he has a bum leg and doesn’t
do much riding or roping.
He bans my sister, my cousins
and me from the ranch where he
feeds and waters the rodeo stock
fearing we’ll feed them apples
and the brahmas and broncs
won’t buck at the rodeo. (p. 10)

Again "Uncle Worship" beautifully illustrates the influential roles that family members, particularly uncles, play in shaping one's life and values. The poem highlights the diverse experiences and lessons provided by different uncles, each contributing to the narrator's growth and understanding of the world.

The mention of Uncle Jack teaching the narrator to drive during a challenging time in his life adds depth to their relationship, showcasing moments of vulnerability and connection. Meanwhile, Uncle Bill and Uncle Frank, both carpenters, serve as models of commitment and perseverance in marriage, demonstrating through their example that relationships endure through hardships.

The reference to another Uncle Bill, a policeman, underscores the theme of justice and protection within the family. The act of catching the grandmother's swindler reinforces the idea that family members look out for one another and uphold moral standards.

Overall, "Uncle Worship" celebrates the significance of familial bonds and the invaluable wisdom passed down through generations. It's a poignant reflection on the multifaceted nature of family relationships and the lessons learned from those who hold special places in our lives.

Uncle Worship

My mother’s brothers
and brothers-in-law
were my teachers
and preachers.

Uncle Jack taught me
to drive a car
in-between his divorce
and dalliances.

Uncle Bill and Uncle Frank,
carpenters like Jacob,
taught me by example
marriage is forever.

My other Uncle Bill,
a policeman, taught me
the law works when he caught
my grandmother’s swindler.

My Grandfather is a Cowboy is Sharon's most recent brilliant achievement.

                                                                                                                  -Reviewed by Rochak