He grew up around men who had driven cattle up the trails and lived the life. From that he developed his vision of the "old west." But, as was reported, he hated cattle and horses but, loved the rancher and cowboy." Sadly, the era of the cattle driving cowboy lasted less then a generation but, knowing some of the veterans, he could recreate the age as it was told to him. Lonesome Dove I consider to be "The Great American Novel." He took many tales, some tall, some true, and massaged them into the story.
A great story teller he had a knack for dialogue and could create "people" like no other writer I've read. Some of his best work was semi-biographical. The Last Picture Story is a terrific yarn about growing up in Texas in the 50s.
So much more to him than Lonesome Dove.
I consider myself extremely blessed to have spent a bit of time talking with him in the Georgetown store.
I love the photo of the Archer City shop. Thanks.