Dogs Death Analysis - 797 Words

Dog’s Death Analysis Gail Kidder ENG125 – English Literature Prof Kristen McClure December 10, 2012 Dog’s Death by John Updike really touched me when I read it for the first time. His use of imagery in this poem is very touching. He makes the reader relate to the death of the dog by showing through his words the emotions of what the dog is going through as well as what his owners are feeling. This paper will show how I think the author was trying to use imagery to show the love between the dog and his owners. The reader-response approach in literary criticism is where the author â€Å"finds a personal link or imaginative entry into a story, poem, or play† (Clugston, 2010). I believe that this approach would be the best type of†¦show more content†¦The helplessness of not knowing that there is something wrong. The feeling of guilt because you didn’t realize any change in behavior to represent that something was wrong. â€Å"In fact, in order to prove itself as good dog as defined by its human caretakers, the dog must do no less than conclusively demonstrate its loyalty† (Karla Armbuster, 2002). This is displayed by how even though she is dying; she still drags herself to the newspaper so she won’t get in trouble by her owner by going to the bathroom on the floor. â€Å"Though surrounded by love that would have upheld her, nevertheless she sank and, stiffening, disappeared† (John Updike, 1958). This is one part of the poem that really portrays the reader-response approach to me because I have been in this position. I was holding my dog in my arms while my husband is driving. Knowing that he is dying and there is nothing in the world that you can do. You just have to hold them close and they can feel the love in your heart. Everyone at one point in their life experiences some sort of loss. Once you bring a pet into your home, they become part of the family. The unconditional love that you receive from them is the best thing ever. Like a child, you raise them, train them, and no matter what, they will always be a loyal, loving part of your family. So, the death of a pet, for some, can be a traumatic experience. You have so many feelings of loss and emptiness that is unexplainable unless you have gone through itShow MoreRelatedAn Analysis Of Dogs Death, By John Updike1602 Words   |  7 Pagesâ€Å"Dog’s Death† The poem, â€Å"Dog’s Death,† written by John Updike brings the reader through a sentimental and heart-wrenching journey, with the life gone too soon, of a beautiful puppy that passes away from a traumatic injury. The poem does not reveal the owner of the puppy, but we do know that the narrator is a man, a father, and a husband when Updike states, â€Å"Monday morning, as the children were noisily fed† and â€Å"I stroked her warm fur / And my wife† (592). 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