Meaning of "Cowpoke" by David Houston

The lyrics of "Cowpoke" by David Houston reflect the bittersweet reality of a cowboy's life. The cowboy is depicted as a solitary figure, moving from place to place without any sense of permanence or belonging. Despite being financially struggling, the cowboy finds contentment and purpose in simple pleasures like riding in rodeos and connecting with nature on the prairies. The references to howling coyotes and the vast western landscapes evoke a sense of freedom and adventure, but also underscore the loneliness and harshness of cowboy life. Through these contrasting themes, the lyrics convey a poignant meditation on the struggles and rewards of living a nomadic and rugged existence.