Abandoned Dog

Read 'Abandoned Dog' by 'Robert William Service' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

Abandoned Dog by Robert William Service

 They dumped it on the lonely road,
 Then like a streak they sped;
And as along the way I strode
 I thought that it was dead:
And then I saw that yelping pup
 Rise, race to catch them up.

You know how silly wee dogs are.
 It thought they were in fun.
Trying to overtake their car
 I saw it run and run:
But as they faster, faster went,
 It stumbled, sore and spent.

I found it prone upon the way;
 Of life was little token.
As limply in the dust it lay
 I thought its heart was broken:
Then one dim eye it opened and
 It sought to like my hand.

Of course I took it gently up
 And brought it to my wife
Who loves all dogs, and now that pup
 Shares in our happy life:
Yet how I curse the bastards who
 Its good luck never knew!

Form: Ballad Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace