Meaning: The quote you've provided is from Robert E. Howard, an American author best known for his pioneering work in the sword and sorcery subgenre of fantasy fiction. The quote reflects Howard's experience and observations of the people in the region he lived in, and the various industries and occupations that were prevalent there.

In this quote, Howard mentions the main sources of livelihood for the people in his community, which include cotton, wheat, cattle, and oil. These industries are emblematic of the economic landscape of the American South and Southwest during the early to mid-20th century, when Howard was writing.

Cotton was a major cash crop in the southern United States, and its cultivation and trade played a central role in the region's economy. The production of wheat also held significance in many agricultural communities, providing a staple crop for food and contributing to the local economy. Cattle ranching was another prominent industry, particularly in the western states, where vast expanses of land were dedicated to grazing. Additionally, the discovery and extraction of oil brought about a significant economic boom in certain areas, particularly in Texas and Oklahoma, where oil fields were abundant.

Howard's mention of "business men and professional men" reflects the presence of individuals engaged in commerce and various professions within the community. This suggests a diverse economic landscape where people were involved in a range of occupations beyond agriculture and resource extraction.

Howard's writing often reflects the influence of his upbringing in rural Texas, and his observations of the people and industries around him likely informed the settings and characters in his stories. The environments and livelihoods he describes in the quote may have inspired the landscapes and economic systems of the fictional worlds he created in his works of fantasy and adventure.

In summary, Robert E. Howard's quote provides a glimpse into the economic activities and occupations that characterized the region where he lived. The mention of cotton, wheat, cattle, and oil highlights the significance of agriculture and resource extraction in the area's economy, while also acknowledging the presence of business and professional communities. This quote offers valuable insight into Howard's lived experience and the real-world influences that shaped his imaginative storytelling.