Old dog

One often maligned but faithful and true. Just want to say I miss you

Misunderstandings snaps and a wail, so sorry I stepped on your tail

But I understand my faithful hound no greater friend to man can be found

A neighbor or two you did bite but what the hell, it was in a fair fight 

With the courage that others lack, what's wrong, you fearlessly attack

Your bark is stronger than your bite, in a pinch for me you still fight

I've read your papers on which you lay, not allowing me to take them away

As you sleep in dreams of poetic fog, let me say I miss you old dog

Reviews

[Chris Shaw]

This is a great metaphor for a friendship on hold because of a misunderstanding. There is loyalty here, humour and warmth. Very nicely conveyed Soren. Light hearted and fun.

Chris

[Soren]

Very perceptive Chris and right on track. I thank you for your keen eye and I knew I could count on you to see through the veneer on this one. Much appreciated.

[RomaJ]

Tender and genuine. This captures the kind of love that’s rough around the edges but deeply loyal. The mix of humor and heartache makes it feel so real. A beautiful tribute to a friendship that never fades.

[Soren]

Thank you so much for the review and most understanding interpretation. I have been bit by my dog and past friends but only when it was my fault and firm boundaries are often set with a bite.

[John the Baptist]

We do become attached to the animals in our lives. I learned recently that veterinarians have one of the highest suicide rates in the US because they witness so much bereavement of pet owners.

[Soren]

Although it may change over years Veterinarians, dentists and psychiatrists have very high suicide rates. Thanks so much John for the read.

[poetic swan]

Warm, affectionate, and playful tribute—captures loyal dog’s personality with humor, sincerity, and gentle nostalgia. Very heartfelt and vivid.

[Soren]

Although a metaphor in a sense this poem was written with a memory of my dog biting my leg when I was cutting his nails. Sitting straddle him I lifted his back paw forgetting his bad hip and he reflexively in pain bit my calf. It was my fault not his but he ran under the table in shame. I appreciate the read.