Bury Me Not On The Lone Prairie

Johnny Cash's rendition of 'Bury Me Not On The Lone Prairie' is a poignant reflection on the life of a cowboy, his connection to nature, and his spiritual yearnings. The song opens with a declaration of the cowboy's preference for the natural world over the constructed sanctity of churches. He finds divinity in the untouched beauty of creation, feeling a profound connection to God under the vast, starry skies of the plains. This sets the tone for a narrative that values freedom, simplicity, and an unmediated relationship with the divine.

The cowboy's gratitude for his life of freedom is evident as he thanks the Lord for not being bound by the constraints of modern life, such as the 'whistle, clock or bell.' He cherishes his open-air existence, working under the sky and partnering with the elements. This lifestyle allows him to embody virtues like generosity, honesty, and a sense of fairness. The cowboy's prayer is not for a life of ease but for one that remains true to his values and the natural world he loves.

As the song progresses, the cowboy acknowledges his human flaws and seeks forgiveness for his occasional lapses. He asks for guidance on his life's journey, symbolized by the 'long, dim trail ahead' leading to the 'great divide,' a metaphor for the afterlife. The song concludes with a haunting plea from a dying youth, who wishes not to be buried on the lone prairie. Despite his plea, he is laid to rest in a shallow grave, underscoring the harsh realities of frontier life. This ending serves as a somber reminder of the cowboy's solitary existence and the ultimate return to the earth, blending themes of freedom, mortality, and the eternal connection to the land.