A dog is my Walden Pond, my Whitman Leaves, My Dickinson Sun-down. When I walk with her Through an Illinois River woods I am brought back to the things That are essential for us. Mind, Heart, Soul Look back at me in a different way. From his eyes, when the Journey seems over, I know the bridge of rainbows lingers somehow behind the clouds. Diogenes in Alexander’s Sun-beams Point to another sign, another sign (Hear the whisper in the corner?) From G-d.
BIO: Dale Williams Barrigar received a Ph.D. in Creative Writing and American Literature from the University of Illinois Chicago. After 22 years in academia, he had an unexpected career change and became a teacher of reading at Saint Leonard Parish School. He has self-published experimental chapbooks, and has 11 poems in journals like the Columbia Poetry Review. Recently completed 2 poetry collections, after 8 years. Currently living in Illinois with Siberian huskies and pit bulls. “A Dog Is My Walden” was largely inspired by the intelligence of these animals.