The man who hated himself

"The Man Who Hated Himself" by Walt Coburn is a gripping story set in Montana during the brutal Great Blizzard of '86, exploring themes of desperation, morality, and redemption within the lives of tough cattlemen. The story follows Buck Bell, a cowboy who makes the fateful decision to steal miners' payroll following unfortunate events. Faced with the harsh winter, and the heavy weight of his guilt, Buck finds himself caring for another cowboy, Cotton Eye, who he wronged during a poker game. As their complex relationship unfolds, Buck is forced to face his mistakes and journeys towards forgiveness. The narrative culminates in a powerful transformation, driven by his struggles against the bitter cold and the battle with his inner torment, ultimately leading him down a path of survival and sacrifice.