Rhymes of the Rockies

"Rhymes of the Rockies" by James W. Whilt is a collection of poems that highlight the rugged beauty and quiet isolation of the Rocky Mountains in the early 1900s. Through his poems, Whilt shares his life as someone who explored the wilderness, working as a timber cruiser, packer, trapper, and guide. The poems explore the wonders of nature, showing the close connection between people and the natural world, while capturing what it was like to live an outdoor life. The verses evoke strong images and feelings tied to the experiences of living among the Rocky Mountains, including themes of hunting, trapping, memory, and nature, each capturing a different part of mountain life. Whilt's poems also look at how traditional ways of life are disappearing, like ranching and trapping, while still finding joy in the simple beauty of nature. The collection focuses on feelings of missing the past, loving the outdoors, and how time changes things, encouraging readers to think about their own experiences in nature and consider how the world is changing. The entire collection serves as a heartfelt tribute to the nature of the Rocky Mountains and the adventurous spirit it stirs in people.