Soupy Jones Character Analysis in Lonesome Dove

Soupy is a former Texas Ranger turned cowhand who Call hires to join the cattle drive. He was once a close friend of Jake Spoon. Over the course of the drive, Soupy becomes more and more resentful that Dish Boggett has the top-hand position. When Dish leaves the outfit, Soupy is promoted to top hand. But the rude way he treats the other men earns him no friends. He leaves after Call puts Newt in charge.

Soupy Jones Character Timeline in Lonesome Dove

The timeline below shows where the character Soupy Jones appears in Lonesome Dove. The colored dots and icons indicate which themes are associated with that appearance.

...When the night shift—Newt, Pea, Dish, and Jasper—rides in, they’ve picked up an additional hand. Soupy Jones is another former Ranger who was particularly good friends with Jake. He retired and... (full context)

...long time because some of them—especially Dish and Needle Nelson—are picky. Call assigns Dish and Soupy to ride point, greatly disappointing Nelson and Bert Borum. Newt, who along with Sean and... (full context)

...but they can’t do anything to stop it. Call sends Newt to warn Dish and Soupy. Dish takes the news calmly, like the experienced professional cowboy he is. Newt tries—unsuccessfully—to mimic... (full context)

...cross the Platte River near Ogallala, and as soon as the cattle are settled, Dish, Soupy, Bert, Jasper, Needle, and Allen go running into town. Augustus is disappointed when he follows... (full context)

When Soupy, Bert, Jasper, Needle—all the worse for wear—drag themselves back to camp in the morning, Newt,... (full context)

...taking interest and pride in Newt’s work and giving the boy increasing responsibilities. This irritates Soupy Jones, who was promoted to top hand after Dish left. When Soupy confronts Newt, Newt... (full context)

Soupy and Bert Borum quit, but Call easily hires six new hands. Things are going well.... (full context)