Ep 7. Cowboys

In the seventh episode of Baskets season 1, titled "Cowboys," we see Chip, the main character, continuing to struggle with his life in Bakersfield. After dropping out of clown school and failing to achieve his dreams in Paris, Chip finds himself working as a rodeo clown in a small California town.

The episode begins with Chip working at the rodeo, where he is upstaged by a group of cowboys who ride bulls in the arena. Feeling inadequate and humiliated, Chip decides to become a cowboy himself. He buys a cowboy hat, boots, and a fake mustache, and sets out to prove his worth.

As Chip attempts to blend in with the cowboy crowd, he finds himself in a series of hilarious situations. He tries to rope a steer, but ends up getting lassoed himself. He attempts to ride a mechanical bull, but gets thrown off and lands in a pile of hay. Throughout it all, Chip remains determined to become a cowboy, even if it means risking his life and dignity.

Meanwhile, other characters are dealing with their own problems. Christine, Chip's mother, has become fascinated with a new neighbor who is an expert on birds. She spends most of the episode watching the birds in her backyard, ignoring her family and responsibilities. Dale, Chip's friend and fellow rodeo clown, is struggling with his own insecurities as he tries to impress a woman he likes.

As the episode progresses, Chip's cowboy dreams become more and more unrealistic. He starts to believe that he can become a real cowboy, even though he has no experience or skills. His determination borders on delusion, as he ignores the advice of more experienced cowboys and puts himself in danger.

Despite his failures and setbacks, Chip refuses to give up on his cowboy dream. He becomes more and more obsessed with the idea of being a cowboy, even as the reality of his situation becomes clear. In the end, Chip learns a valuable lesson about the importance of self-acceptance and the dangers of blindly pursuing unrealistic goals.

Overall, Baskets season 1 episode 7 is a funny and poignant look at one man's desperate attempt to find meaning and purpose in his life. It is a testament to the show's unique blend of humor and heart, and a reminder that sometimes the most important journey is the one we take inside ourselves.