Meaning of "Buffalo Skinners" by Moriarty

"Buffalo Skinners" is a ballad that reflects the harsh realities and challenges faced by cowboys during the buffalo hunting era. The song captures the spirit of adventure and camaraderie that drew many young men to the open range. However, it also highlights the treacherous nature of the buffalo hunt and the exploitative practices of some drovers.

The lyrics speak to the allure of the cowboy lifestyle, with its promises of good wages and a pleasant summer on the range. The cowboys are enticed by Crego's offer, disregarding his warning about the potential dangers. This can be seen as a metaphor for the allure of adventure and the willingness to take risks in pursuit of excitement and monetary gain.

As the journey progresses, the song takes a darker turn. The lightning storm symbolizes the unpredictable and uncontrollable forces that the cowboys must face. The cactus injuries serve as a reminder of the harsh and unforgiving environment in which they find themselves. The outlaws in the hills of Mexico represent the threats from both nature and human adversaries that the cowboys encounter.

The drover's refusal to pay the cowboys and his claim that they are in debt highlights the exploitative practices and lack of fairness in the cowboy industry. Despite their hard work and sacrifices, the cowboys are left with nothing, while the drover profits off their labor. However, the cowboys refuse to be victims of this unjust system and choose to abandon the drover, leaving him to his fate on the buffalo range.

Overall, "Buffalo Skinners" examines the harsh realities of the cowboy lifestyle, the allure of adventure, the exploitative practices of some drovers, and the resilience and rebellion of the cowboys against injustice.