I just read Cormac’ McCarthy’s ALL THE PRETTY HORSES. Why does this master craftsman, perhaps the dean, of American letters refer to hats six times in the first two pages of this National Book Award winning masterwork of the West? “He took off his hat and came slowly forward” (the second sentence in the book). “He stood with his hat in his hand.” “He walked out on the prairie and stood holding his hat like some supplicant to the darkness over them and he stood there for a long time.” “…. and the sound came lagging and he stood still holding his hat in his hands ….”. “He hung the hat on a peg by the door and came …..” “…. and the women sat holding on to their hats.” These references, of course, are carefully designed. The hat is to stand for something essential, is critical to the picture being painted.
The ALL THE PRETTY HORSES story is about sustaining personal integrity as the very purpose and meaning of life. The setting is mid-twentieth century west Texas and northern Mexico. There are few possessions that matter, but those that do, matter fiercely. Horses and hats are among them. A horse we can understand, but a hat is an inanimate object. Why should it matter so much?
To many, the western hat is a badge. Wearing it says something loud and clear about the beliefs and values of its owner. When and how to hold it, when and how to wear it, when to hang it, how to use it as a tool – this is much more than just another article of clothing. The importance of hats to this sub-culture of America cannot be overstated any more than one can overstate the importance of hats to Hasidic Jews or devout Muslims. Hats have always been important symbols. As covering to the cranium, is it any wonder. So add Cormac McCarthy to the list of those who understand and appreciate hats. And, oh by the way, read this book – it’s great.
Fred Belinsky
