Being Texan : Essays, Recipes, And Advice For The Lone Star Way Of Life by Editors of Texas Monthly

The editors of Texas Monthly dive into the essence of Texan identity in this captivating anthology filled with essays, journalistic accounts, delectable recipes, and invaluable recommendations from their esteemed team of contributors. While it is easy to succumb to the stereotypes of big hats, big trucks, and big oil fortunes, Texas is so much more than these clichés. It is a vibrant melting pot that embraces sprawling urban centers, trailblazing visionaries, and cherished traditions from around the world. These elements have become deeply ingrained in the fabric of popular culture and woven into the tapestry of the American ideal.

In Being Texan, the talented editors of Texas Monthly celebrate the rich tapestry of their diverse state, painting a vivid picture of its multifaceted landscapes, customs, people, culture, and cuisine. This collection showcases essays and engaging reportage that shed light on the lives of over 29 million Texans. It explores the unique joys, quirks, and intricacies of Texan life, unearths overlooked chapters of Texas history, and delves into the distinct strands of Texan arts and culture.

Accompanied by original drawings, Being Texan presents a captivating journey through the beauty, vastness, and complexity of the Lone Star State. It serves as a testament to the remarkable experiences and untold stories that make Texas such a remarkable place. With illuminating insights, surprising discoveries, and entertaining anecdotes, this anthology offers a unique perspective on the true essence of being Texan.

The Essence of Being Texan: Reflections on Identity, Culture, and Pride

What does being Texan mean?

Being Texan can encompass a myriad of things. It’s about having a certain swagger and self-confidence, living by the philosophy of going big or going home. Being Texan requires us to question our past and embrace our welcoming nature. If you’re here and you want to be here, then you’re a Texan. Texas has undoubtedly evolved for the better in my lifetime. We have become a wildly diverse state, with communities comprising people from all around the globe who found something appealing about Texas.

Exploring Texas Culture

I have delved into the essence of Texas in my writings. Through essays, I’ve explored the distinctive Texas style and what it truly means. I also had the opportunity to contribute to the food and drink chapter, which, in my opinion, is the highlight of the book. In addition, I shared stories about honky-tonks across the state and wrote about the remarkable drives Texas has to offer. However, perhaps the most significant piece I wrote was about my upbringing and experiences working in the oil patch out in West Texas.

I’ve also dedicated some of my work to music. I delved into the lives and legacies of legendary artists like blind Willie Johnson and DJ Screw, both of whom made significant contributions to the music scene in Texas. Additionally, I’ve shed light on the adversarial relationship between Texans and cedars, and explored our love for beloved Texan institutions such as Dr Pepper and Whataburger.

Defying Texan Stereotypes

Texas is not just about cowboy boots and country music. It’s about embracing the diversity that exists within the state. We don’t adhere to a single monolithic Texan identity. There are countless ways to define what it means to be a Texan, but we all share a pride in our state. We all enjoy tacos and count our blessings that we’re not from Arkansas. Texans are a diverse bunch, and we should celebrate that.

The Book: Being Texan

For those looking to understand Texas and its people, “Being Texan” is a must-read. It encapsulates the greatness of our state with an array of incredible writers contributing to its pages. The book not only provides a snapshot of Texas’ past and present but also gives insights into its future. Would you really go to a bookstore and buy a book called “Being Oklahoman”? I don’t think so.