Elko
 
Went up to Elko some days back
to see what the ruckus was for
folks reciting poems and some singing songs
you had to buy tickets for sure
 
they wanted folks gathered together
To sit and observe all the shows
Better to see all the talent
folks who organize it are pros
 
my brother and I drove out to see
some folks suited up to the nines
Hats and boots and hair and coats
Brought out for the lights and lines 
 
we got us a room at a motel
And commenced to enjoy the parade
Searching for someone who might be someone
And just as we're sittin,' saying "we got it made!"
 
We spot Waddie Mitchell ordering food
Then we figure this town is ok
We came to find out all the folks entertaining
Had something important to say
 
They'd worked hard to be in this place
Cowboys and cowgirls with crackle and pop
Came to parlay their wisdom and truth
The crowds didn't want them to stop
 
Cause you find yourself caught by the words of the poems
and songs sung so true that you cry
and you're gathered with folks who don't push and shove
but politely let you get by
 
nobody cares how you're dressed
or if you have something to show
just glad to be in this place
where the west gives off its glow
 
then the next thing you know it's all over
and we're driving where cattle still run
fresh snow spread over the country
like the memories of  the Elko fun.
©Steve Dirksen