For almost as long as dogs have had a relationship with humans, they have appeared in our art. Obviously, dogs really inspire us and they’ve always been very important to us as well.
Jimmy Stewart, known for his iconic roles in ‘Vertigo’ and ‘Mr. Smith Goes To Washington,’ also wrote several poems. As a dog lover, it was only natural for his dog Beau to be the subject of one of these poems.
Stewart appeared on Johnny Carson’s show in July 1981, where he read aloud this moving poem about Beau, who had passed away at this time. At first, Stewart describes Beau’s stubborn and playful personality.
“He never came to me when I called
Unless I have a tennis ball,
Or he feels like it.
But most of all, he didn’t come at all.”
Beau also has a bit of fire in him and often gets ahead of his elderly parents on walks. Stewart’s poem describes his walks with Beau and his wife Gloria.
“He will rush out into the street,
With mother hanging above,
And they are such a beautiful couple.
But sometimes he stops walking
With a frown on his face and looking around.
It’s just to make sure the old one is there
To follow him where he is bound.
Stewart also describes that although he goes to bed early, he often finds time to play with Beau before going to bed. The dog usually hugs them in bed and watches over them all night.
“There were nights when I felt him climb into our bed and lie between us,
And I’ll pat his head.
And there are nights when I feel your stare
And I would wake up and he would sit there.
Ultimately, however, the problem with raising a dog is how easy it is to love them wholeheartedly, no matter how misbehaving they may be. Stewart’s poem describes the loss he feels without his best friend.
“And there are nights when I think I feel that look
And I ran my hand through his hair,
But he wasn’t there.
Oh, how I wish that wasn’t so,
I will always love a dog named Beau.”
When the actor finished his poem, he choked as he read the last words. Carson’s audience clapped loudly, and the host covered his head with his hands to hide his emotions. Watch Stewart’s heartfelt reading on the show, but also prepare to shed some tears!
As I continue to grieve the loss of my dog Cody, I find solace in Stewart’s words. You never forget your dog, no matter how many dogs you adopt later. Every puppy has a different relationship with their humans, and each holds a different place in our hearts. I will always love a dog named Cody.
Featured pictures: GodTube
