Choose the selection you liked best. Provide reasons why you liked this selection, then offer evidence from the text to support your reasons.

At 8:15 in the morning . . .
Sad eyes watch
Eileen drive away–
Irma mourns.
Slumped against the gate,
the old dog foghorns
her sorrow
to the neighborhood.

Irma’s desolate moans
tell us what she thinks:
I'm abandoned, alone.
White-muzzled Irma howls
and howls her discontent:
My Eileen is gone, gone . . .
My friend on the phone
can hear Irma cry.
I explain what’s wrong.

At 8:30 in the morning . . .
Wait–Irma hears a car.
Her howling stops.
The old dog wriggles with joy.
I was not abandoned.
I am not alone.
My Eileen has come home!

1 answer

I particularly liked this poem due to its emotional depth and the vivid portrayal of the bond between Irma, the dog, and Eileen, the owner. The piece captures the intense feelings of abandonment and joy, illustrating the profound connection that exists between humans and their pets.

One reason I appreciated this selection is its ability to convey complex emotions in a few short stanzas. The use of simple yet evocative language allows readers to empathize with Irma's feelings of loss and subsequent joy. For example, the lines "Sad eyes watch / Eileen drive away— / Irma mourns" immediately set the tone of sorrow and concern, making Irma's emotional state relatable to anyone who has experienced separation from a loved one.

Additionally, the imagery throughout the poem reinforces the themes of loneliness and reunion. The phrase "Slumped against the gate" paints a poignant picture of Irma's despair, emphasizing her vulnerability and dependence on Eileen. In contrast, the moment when Irma hears a car and her "howling stops" signifies a shift from despair to hope, culminating in pure joy as she realizes her owner is returning. This stark contrast underscores the emotional rollercoaster of waiting and the relief that comes with reunion.

Overall, the poem effectively encapsulates the profound connection between Irma and Eileen, demonstrating how the simple act of coming home can transform feelings of loneliness into joy, making it a moving piece that resonates with anyone who knows the love of a pet.