I just finished the first prequel of Larry McMurtry’s Lonesome Dove series, Dead Man’s Walk. It’s interesting to now read the backstory of how Call and Gus met and established a fast friendship. It also establishes the characters’ participation in the Ranger service that is often referred to in Lonesome Dove.
Since I read Lonesome Dove first, I knew the main characters would not be killed in these adventures. They certainly had some experiences where I otherwise would have been fearful.
Thoughts on the Setting
The story takes place in the 1840’s. So many people were moving out West despite the dangerous terrain, Indigenous tribes, and some of the settlers/tradespeople. Sure, there were plenty of generous people along the way, but there were also great risks. It really puts migration of any type into perspective. People who typically uproot their lives are looking for something better. They estimate that the dangers they might encounter can’t be worse than at home. In this story, some people were out West for profit, but they were still betting their chances at survival.
Thoughts on the Characters
The takeaway for me was the friendship between Call and Gus. Woodrow Call sees life as black and white. Right vs. Wrong. Willing to stand up for what he values as the correct way to do things and treat people. Gus McCrae is a little more laissez-faire. Interested in women, gambling, and taking it easy. It’s amazing that these two young men (at the time) became fast friends.
I see myself as more like Woodrow Call than Gus McCrae – more serious, measuring risks against opportunities. I find that I need more people like Gus in my life. My best friend growing up was very impetuous and didn’t seem to think about consequences. I think we balanced each other pretty well. We managed to survive her bad decisions/adventurous spirit!
I’ve moved to a new community now, with the need to make new friends. Thinking about Gus and Call in Dead Man’s Walk reminds me that I need to force myself to be more spontaneous. With that said, I’d better stop writing this post and get out in the real world!
(And later today, on to more Larry McMurtry – the 2nd book in the series – Comanche Moon….)
