"Cities of the Plain" is a novel by Cormac McCarthy, published in 1998. It is the third book in the Border Trilogy, following "All the Pretty Horses" and "The Crossing." The story continues the journey of the characters John Grady Cole and Billy Parham, exploring themes of love, loss, and the harsh realities of life in the American West. Set in the early 20th century, the novel delves into the lives of cowboys and their struggles against changing societal norms. It highlights the bond between the characters and their connection to the land, while also addressing issues such as violence and the pursuit of dreams.