Smoky the Cowhorse · Theme
Loyalty and Betrayal
How Smoky the Cowhorse develops Loyalty and Betrayal.
Smoky's unwavering loyalty to Clint contrasts sharply with the betrayal and cruelty he suffers from other humans, such as thieves and abusive handlers.
Where it surfaces
- Where the Trails Fork
Smoky forms a loyal partnership with the big buckskin, fighting together against the chestnut stud and supporting each other.
- Smoky Shows His Feelings
Smoky's fierce protection of Clint against Jeff Nicks demonstrates unwavering loyalty, while Clint's decision to quit bronc-breaking to keep Smoky shows his reciprocal commitment.
- IX: Fights for Rights
Clint's loyalty to Smoky leads him to defy Old Tom and risk his job, while Old Tom's claim is seen as a betrayal of cowboy code.
- Amongst the Missing
Clint's loyalty to Smoky is tested by outside offers to buy the horse, and he feels both anger and fear at the possibility of losing him.