The lyrics depict a man writing a letter to a friend, cautioning him about the dangers of letting cowboy pride ruin his relationships. The protagonist urges his friend to leave behind a younger woman he is involved with and return to his faithful wife and family before it's too late.

Meaning of "Cowboy Pride" by Michael Martin Murphey

"Cowboy Pride" delves into the concept of traditional masculinity and the consequences of stubbornly holding onto outdated values. The lyrics emphasize the importance of loyalty, especially when it comes to romantic relationships, highlighting the destructive nature of infidelity and the disillusionment that comes with prioritizing pride over love and commitment. The protagonist serves as a cautionary tale, warning his friend not to repeat his mistakes and advocating for the virtues of faithfulness and family stability. The song ultimately underscores the idea that true strength lies in vulnerability and the willingness to set aside one's ego for the sake of those who truly matter.