Twisp rancher John Doran has published his debut poetry collection, I’ve Never Fallen Off My Horse, featuring his signature Western-themed “Cowboy Poetry.”
The collection’s title poem is the centerpiece of the book, according to Greg Wright, publisher at Methow Press.
Wright describes Doran’s poems as vivid, drawn from his diverse experiences as a rancher, packer, cowhand, smokejumper, fireman, and storyteller. These roles bring authenticity and depth to his work.
Doran has performed at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nevada, several times. His performances also include appearances at the Northwest Folk Life Festival in Seattle, The Spirit of the West gathering in Ellensburg, The Cowpoke Poetry Gathering in California, Town Hall in Seattle, The Packers’ Rendezvous in Winthrop, and numerous other venues across the West.
Many of his poems have previously been published in various anthologies.
A second-generation rancher, Doran grew up on the Walking “D” Ranch north of Twisp. He has also run an outfitting and packing business and taught military horsemanship at the U.S. Cavalry School.
To celebrate the release of I’ve Never Fallen Off My Horse, a free community reception will be held at the Methow Valley Community Center on Saturday, January 11, at 6:30 p.m. T.R. Stewart will provide musical entertainment, and light refreshments will be served.
