“Reflection” named 2020 IWMA Cowboy Poetry Book of the Year!

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Oregon horseman Tom Swearingen’s cowboy poetry is often inspired by his own experiences and observations from the saddle. He brings his poems to life with rhythm and rhyme and a style that makes him a popular performer at western music and cowboy poetry gatherings throughout the West. His award recognitions include 2019 International Western Music Association Male Poet of the Year. And now, 2020 IWMA Cowboy Poetry Book of the Year for “Reflection.”

Praise for “Reflection”

“To write good cowboy poetry there are ingredients that are must haves. It starts with a good idea or story. You want to engage the reader. Make it worth their time to read.
It must reek of authenticity, the writer might be introducing the reader to the cowboy life and genre. The story should be told in the right order for easy mind pictures.
If quoting, the language should fit the time period and region and the persona of the character.
Stay away from movie and TV clichés.
The rhyme and meter should roll effortlessly and properly.
Tom has taken the time and put in the work to learn the craft.
He sprung into the poetry world seamlessly and has taken a seat among the best appreciated and enjoyed of the cowboy poets.
I’ve enjoyed watching him grow as an entertainer and writer.” 

-Waddie Mitchell, buckaroo poet, co-founder National Cowboy Poetry Gathering

 

"Here’s a superb gathering of poems by a master wordsmith and all-around great guy. The poems are totally candid, positively well crafted, and will ring true for aficionados of tasteful humor and heartfelt, thoughtful poems that will leave a glow in the hearts of listeners and readers. Tom’s honesty and delightful personality gleam throughout."

-Juni Fisher, WILLA Literary Award Finalist, horsewoman, award-winning singer/songwriter

 

“Oregon’s state tree is the Douglas fir. Scientific journals describe it as one of the most valuable timber resources in the country…important, strong, versatile…has few rivals…medicinal uses…roots are planted deep. Tom Swearingen’s roots go deep. When horse hooves hit the ground, when you crave a rootin’ tootin’ wordsmith who writes and recites to the rhythm of words and hoofbeats, you need look no further. Tom’s poetry is important, strong and versatile. It is good medicine. Our tribe of cowboy poets is lucky to have him in our midst. He is our Douglas fir tree.”

-Doris Daley, western poet, humorist, and author

 

“A quality offering from a quality human being.”

-Dave Stamey, singer/songwriter