Mary Oliver’s poetry often delves into the profound beauty of the natural world, and her collection “Dog Songs” is no exception. While seemingly focused on the everyday lives of dogs, these poems possess a distinctly mystical quality, exploring the sacredness found in nature, relationships, and the simple existence of our canine companions. Oliver’s work challenges the notion that the sacred is confined to the transcendent, reminding us of the “ordinary holiness” that surrounds us, particularly in the deep bond between humans and dogs.
The Poetry Teacher: Valuing Connection Over Elegance
In “The Poetry Teacher,” Oliver recounts a situation where she was initially denied bringing her dog, Ben, into a new, elegant classroom. Her contract, however, protected her right to have him. Faced with a compromise, she moved to an older classroom, propping the door open to allow the outdoors and, by extension, Ben and his furry friends, to join her and her students. This anecdote highlights Oliver’s core values: she prioritizes the wildness, the simple joys, and the profound connection with her dog over material comfort or societal expectations. The students, too, seem to thrive in this less conventional, more alive environment, producing “thirsty, happy poems.” This experience underscores the idea that true education and inspiration can flourish when we embrace the natural world and the relationships within it.
The Storm (Bear): Expressing Pleasure Through Being
“The Storm (Bear)” captures a moment of pure, unadulterated joy as Oliver’s dog, Bear, romps through freshly fallen snow. The poem describes how Bear’s movements “write upon” the snow in “large, exuberant letters,” an expression of “the pleasures of the body in this world.” Oliver reflects that she herself could not have articulated this feeling so perfectly. This poem resonates with Taoist philosophy, suggesting that the most meaningful expressions are not always those conveyed through abstract language or intellectual concepts. Bear’s actions, driven by instinct and bodily pleasure, are a direct and potent form of communication, demonstrating a form of being that transcends human articulation.
Little Dog’s Rhapsody In The Night: The Sweet Arrangement of Love
The intimacy shared in “Little Dog’s Rhapsody In The Night” is palpable. The dog, resting his head against the speaker, makes “small, expressive sounds” and flips upside down, his eyes “dark and fervent,” seeking reassurance. The repeated plea, “Tell me you love me,” and the speaker’s affirmation, “I get to tell,” reveal a beautiful, simple contract of love. This poem celebrates the “sweeter arrangement” of a relationship built on mutual affection and the joy of being able to express and receive love repeatedly. It’s a testament to the straightforward, yet deeply meaningful, communication that defines the human-animal bond.
How It Begins: The Puppy’s Longing
“How It Begins” offers a poignant glimpse into the initial stages of a puppy’s life. Oliver describes the universality of a puppy’s existence – “a puppy is a puppy is a puppy” – often found in a basket with its siblings. As the puppy grows, it becomes a “bundle of longing,” an emotion it may not yet fully comprehend. The poem culminates in the moment of adoption, when someone selects that particular puppy, signifying the start of a new chapter. This poem touches upon the innate desire for connection and belonging that is fundamental to all living beings, especially those as eager for companionship as a young dog. For those embarking on this journey, understanding the needs of a young pup is crucial, and resources on puppy care essentials can provide valuable guidance.
Percy, Waiting for Ricky: The Examined Life vs. Simple Being
In “Percy, Waiting for Ricky,” Oliver contemplates the contrast between her own introspective, “examined life” and the seemingly simpler existence of her dog, Percy. When told a friend is coming, Percy rushes to the door with a joyful, “laugh-shape” mouth and a wagging tail. Oliver wonders “How would it be to be Percy,” free from the burden of constant thought and weighing of emotions. This poem beautifully captures the human tendency towards overthinking and the allure of unadulterated, present-moment experience, something dogs seem to embody effortlessly. The pursuit of simple joy, much like the enthusiasm Percy shows, is something many readers find relatable, and exploring collections of children’s books about dogs can sometimes evoke that same sense of uncomplicated delight.
A Bad Day: Shared Humanity in Imperfection
“A Bad Day” presents a humorous yet insightful dialogue between Oliver and her dog, Ricky, who is exhibiting destructive behavior. Ricky articulates his grievances – forgotten walks, late dinner, a shortened outing – in a remarkably human-like fashion. The poem’s punchline, “Honestly, what do you expect? Like you I’m not perfect, I’m only human,” bridges the perceived gap between human and animal. This poem is a powerful reminder of the shared “humanity” – or perhaps “personhood” – that extends to all beings. It challenges the societal tendency to distance ourselves from nature and encourages a more empathetic view, recognizing that imperfections and the need for understanding are universal. As Oliver suggests, our pets invite us to care for all animals and to find our “place in the family of things,” a sentiment echoed in the enduring appeal of characters like Clifford, as seen in the Clifford the Big Red Dog book collection.
Her Grave: Love, Loss, and the Infallible Energies of Life
“Her Grave” is a deeply moving elegy for a beloved dog, reflecting on the profound nature of love, loss, and the interconnectedness of life. Oliver revisits memories of her dog’s vibrant presence – her return from the bog, her “hideous and wonderful smile,” the “unassuming perfect arch of her neck.” The act of carrying her body into the woods and the gentle rain symbolize a natural transition. The poem then expands to contemplate the inherent wisdom and belonging of all creatures – hummingbirds, cranes, bears, and water snakes – suggesting that they, like dogs, are part of something larger, not the sole creators of their existence. The profound realization that “you do not own her, as you do not own the rain, or the trees” is central to Oliver’s philosophy. Even in grief, she finds a sense of awe and acceptance, acknowledging the “infallible energies” of nature and the overwhelming “slick mountains of love” that remain. The poem concludes with a powerful acceptance of her dog’s “unshakable sleep” and the enduring presence of love. For those who cherish such profound connections, exploring other works by authors who capture the essence of the human-animal bond, such as the widely popular Dog Man series, can offer further literary companionship.
