"To Flush, My Dog": Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s Ode to Loyalty and Unconditional Love

Best Pet Daily - Elizabeth Barrett Browning's  poem, "To Flush, My Dog", is personal but carries a universal message

Elizabeth Barrett Browning is celebrated for her rich emotional depth, lyrical genius, and contributions to Victorian poetry. Among her notable works, To Flush, My Dog stands out as an intimate and touching tribute to her beloved spaniel, Flush. This poem transcends a simple ode to a pet—it captures the essence of loyalty, unconditional love, and the companionship that so many of us share with our pets. Let’s explore why To Flush, My Dog continues to resonate with readers over a century later, and how Browning used her poetic brilliance to transform her furry companion into an everlasting symbol of loyalty.

The Poem - To Flush, My Dog by Elizabeth Barrett Browning c1840

Loving friend, the gift of one,

Who, her own true faith, hath run,

Through thy lower nature ;

Be my benediction said

With my hand upon thy head,

Gentle fellow-creature !

Like a lady's ringlets brown,

Flow thy silken ears adown

Either side demurely,

Of thy silver-suited breast

Shining out from all the rest

Of thy body purely.

Darkly brown thy body is,

Till the sunshine, striking this,

Alchemize its dulness, —

When the sleek curls manifold

Flash all over into gold,

With a burnished fulness.

Underneath my stroking hand,

Startled eyes of hazel bland

Kindling, growing larger, —

Up thou leapest with a spring,

Full of prank and curvetting,

Leaping like a charger.

Leap ! thy broad tail waves a light ;

Leap ! thy slender feet are bright,

Canopied in fringes.

Leap — those tasselled ears of thine

Flicker strangely, fair and fine,

Down their golden inches

Yet, my pretty sportive friend,

Little is 't to such an end

That I praise thy rareness !

Other dogs may be thy peers

Haply in these drooping ears,

And this glossy fairness.

But of thee it shall be said,

This dog watched beside a bed

Day and night unweary, —

Watched within a curtained room,

Where no sunbeam brake the gloom

Round the sick and dreary.

Roses, gathered for a vase,

In that chamber died apace,

Beam and breeze resigning —

This dog only, waited on,

Knowing that when light is gone,

Love remains for shining.

Other dogs in thymy dew

Tracked the hares and followed through

Sunny moor or meadow —

This dog only, crept and crept

Next a languid cheek that slept,

Sharing in the shadow.

Other dogs of loyal cheer

Bounded at the whistle clear,

Up the woodside hieing —

This dog only, watched in reach

Of a faintly uttered speech,

Or a louder sighing.

And if one or two quick tears

Dropped upon his glossy ears,

Or a sigh came double, —

Up he sprang in eager haste,

Fawning, fondling, breathing fast,

In a tender trouble.

And this dog was satisfied,

If a pale thin hand would glide,

Down his dewlaps sloping, —

Which he pushed his nose within,

After, — platforming his chin

On the palm left open.

This dog, if a friendly voice

Call him now to blyther choice

Than such chamber-keeping,

Come out ! ' praying from the door, —

Presseth backward as before,

Up against me leaping.

Therefore to this dog will I,

Tenderly not scornfully,

Render praise and favour !

With my hand upon his head,

Is my benediction said

Therefore, and for ever.

And because he loves me so,

Better than his kind will do

Often, man or woman,

Give I back more love again

Than dogs often take of men, —

Leaning from my Human.

Blessings on thee, dog of mine,

Pretty collars make thee fine,

Sugared milk make fat thee !

Pleasures wag on in thy tail —

Hands of gentle motion fail

Nevermore, to pat thee !

Downy pillow take thy head,

Silken coverlid bestead,

Sunshine help thy sleeping !

No fly 's buzzing wake thee up —

No man break thy purple cup,

Set for drinking deep in.

Whiskered cats arointed flee —

Sturdy stoppers keep from thee

Cologne distillations ;

Nuts lie in thy path for stones,

And thy feast-day macaroons

Turn to daily rations !

Mock I thee, in wishing weal ? —

Tears are in my eyes to feel

Thou art made so straightly,

Blessing needs must straighten too, —

Little canst thou joy or do,

Thou who lovest greatly.

Yet be blessed to the height

Of all good and all delight

Pervious to thy nature, —

Only loved beyond that line,

With a love that answers thine,

Loving fellow-creature !

1. Introduction: Elizabeth Barrett Browning and Her Legacy

Elizabeth Barrett Browning was one of the most prominent poets of the Victorian era, and her work continues to influence writers and poetry lovers to this day. Known for her delicate yet powerful language, Browning often delved into themes of love, nature, and personal struggle. In To Flush, My Dog, she brings these elements together, using her relationship with Flush as a lens through which she explores themes of loyalty and companionship.

What sets Browning apart is her ability to take the personal and make it universal. While To Flush, My Dog is undeniably a love letter to her cherished dog, it also touches on emotions that pet parents across generations can understand: the bond between human and animal that transcends words, gestures, and even time.

2. Overview of To Flush, My Dog

To Flush, My Dog is more than just a sentimental poem about a pet. Browning wrote it as a deeply personal reflection on the unwavering devotion Flush offered her during times of physical illness and emotional isolation. The poem spans several stanzas and is written with an almost tender reverence for her four-legged companion.

In the poem, Browning paints vivid images of Flush’s physical beauty, describing his "silken ears" and the way his brown body shines in the sunlight, transforming into "gold." These descriptions, however, are not just about his appearance—they symbolize his loyalty and radiant spirit, traits that lightened Browning’s often gloomy existence. The poem is also packed with comparisons between Flush and other dogs, highlighting how his loyalty stands apart. While other dogs may chase hares in the meadow or frolic in the thymy dew, Flush remains steadfast by Browning’s side, offering her comfort and love during her times of need.

3. The Significance of Dogs in Victorian Literature

To fully appreciate To Flush, My Dog, we must understand the cultural and literary context in which it was written. In Victorian England, pets, especially dogs, began to shift from mere working animals to beloved companions. While dogs had long been symbols of loyalty and protection, the Victorian era marked a time when they began to be seen more as emotional companions, especially in middle- and upper-class households.

In literature, dogs frequently symbolized loyalty, devotion, and even sacrifice. Browning’s poem is part of this tradition but stands out for its intensely personal tone. Unlike other dog poems of the era that focused on the physical abilities of dogs or their utility, Browning’s poem is rooted in the emotional and psychological support Flush provided her. In this sense, To Flush, My Dog is ahead of its time, reflecting the growing Victorian sentimentality surrounding pets and their roles in the family.

In To Flush, My Dog, Browning emphasizes how Flush didn’t just offer her companionship during sunny walks or playful moments. Instead, he stayed close to her during dark, difficult days—those "curtained" moments where no sunlight broke through. In Victorian literature, this shift toward viewing pets as emotional companions is significant, as it mirrors the broader societal trend of treating pets as part of the family.

4. Exploring Loyalty in To Flush, My Dog

One of the most beautiful aspects of To Flush, My Dog is the way Browning explores the theme of loyalty. Flush isn’t just a pretty dog with silken ears—he’s a symbol of devotion that goes beyond what most people experience from other human beings. Browning writes about how other dogs "bounded at the whistle clear," reveling in outdoor adventures, but Flush? He stayed inside, offering silent companionship, not because it was asked of him, but because his loyalty ran deeper than the need for external rewards.

Flush’s loyalty is portrayed as instinctive, unshakeable, and selfless. He remains by Browning’s side during her illness and suffering, his only goal being to offer her comfort. And it’s not just physical closeness; Browning writes of Flush watching her intently, understanding her needs without words. His presence is almost therapeutic, soothing her in ways that even the roses in the vase, which died in the stifling room, could not.

Browning’s portrayal of loyalty is not transactional. Flush doesn’t expect treats or affection in return—he remains faithful simply because he loves her. This pure form of loyalty contrasts sharply with human relationships, which can often be fraught with expectations and conditions. Flush’s loyalty is simple and unconditional, making it all the more powerful.

5. The Emotional Depth of To Flush, My Dog

While To Flush, My Dog celebrates the physical beauty and playful nature of Flush, it also delves into deeper emotional territory. The poem is layered with feelings of gratitude, love, and even melancholy as Browning reflects on the bond she shares with her dog. The emotional weight of the poem comes from Browning’s understanding that Flush’s loyalty isn’t just about his devotion—it’s about his ability to provide comfort during some of her most vulnerable moments.

In one stanza, Browning describes how, if a tear dropped upon Flush’s glossy ears or if she let out a heavy sigh, he would leap into action, full of "tender trouble." This image of Flush rushing to console Browning is one that any pet parent can recognize—pets have an uncanny ability to sense when we’re feeling down, and they respond not with words, but with their presence.

The poem’s emotional depth also comes from the realization that Browning feels this bond is unique. While other dogs may love their owners, Browning feels that Flush’s love is different, perhaps even superior, to the love she receives from people. She writes, “And because he loves me so, / Better than his kind will do / Often, man or woman,” recognizing that Flush’s loyalty and love are purer than what she has experienced from many humans.

In this way, To Flush, My Dog becomes not just a tribute to a beloved pet, but a reflection on the nature of love itself. Browning suggests that sometimes, the most loyal and loving relationships in our lives come from unexpected sources, and these relationships—whether with a person or a dog—are worth cherishing.

6. Browning’s Use of Language and Imagery

Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s mastery of language is on full display in To Flush, My Dog. Through her rich, descriptive imagery, Browning brings Flush to life in the reader’s mind. She describes his "silken ears" and the way his fur gleams "with a burnished fulness" in the sunlight. These descriptions don’t just tell us what Flush looks like—they convey his vitality, his warmth, and his steadfastness.

The visual language in the poem isn’t just about physical appearance; it’s also about the emotional connection between Browning and Flush. When Browning strokes Flush’s head and his eyes grow wide, we’re not just seeing a dog—we’re seeing a creature who understands, who offers comfort, who is in tune with Browning’s needs. Browning’s ability to capture these small, intimate moments in such vivid detail is what makes the poem so emotionally resonant.

The imagery of Flush “pressing backward” when called away from Browning’s side further enhances the theme of loyalty. He’s not interested in frolicking or chasing after new distractions—his place is with Browning, and that’s where he stays.

7. Comparing To Flush, My Dog to Other Famous Dog Poems

Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s To Flush, My Dog holds a unique place in literary history, but it’s not the only well-known dog poem. When compared to other famous works, Browning’s poem stands out for its tender and deeply personal tone.

Take Lord Byron’s Epitaph to a Dog, for instance, written in memory of his beloved dog Boatswain. While Byron’s poem mourns the loss of his companion and emphasizes the loyalty of dogs compared to humans, it’s written from a distance. Browning’s poem, on the other hand, is written in the present tense, celebrating the companionship Flush provides during her life. While Byron’s dog is remembered fondly after death, Flush is honored in the moment, for his everyday acts of devotion and loyalty.

Another comparison can be made to Rudyard Kipling’s The Power of the Dog. Kipling’s poem captures the emotional impact of losing a pet, focusing on the pain that comes with loving animals whose lives are inevitably shorter than ours. Browning, by contrast, celebrates the joy that Flush brings to her life, emphasizing his unwavering presence through the challenges of illness and isolation. It’s a poem about love that exists in the here and now, rather than a reflection on loss.

Where other dog poems often focus on the loyalty of dogs as a broad characteristic, Browning’s To Flush, My Dog is intimate, offering specific details about her relationship with Flush. It’s not just a poem about dogs in general—it’s about this dog, in this moment, and that specificity makes it particularly powerful.

8. The Real Story Behind Flush: Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s True Companion

Best Pet Daily - Flush was a gift from a fellow writer and a true companion to Browning

Who was Flush? The spaniel at the center of this heartfelt poem was more than just a pet—he was a source of comfort and companionship during a particularly difficult period of Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s life. Flush was gifted to Browning by fellow writer and close friend Mary Russell Mitford, and he quickly became an essential part of Browning’s life.

At the time, Browning was living a relatively secluded life due to long-standing health issues. Confined to her room for extended periods, Browning relied on Flush for emotional support. In fact, Browning’s biographers often note that her bond with Flush was crucial to her well-being during these years. He was there not just as a companion but as a source of joy in an otherwise challenging life.

Flush was even the subject of a biographical work, Flush: A Biography, by Virginia Woolf. Woolf’s book is a semi-fictional account of Flush’s life, blending fact and imagination to create a portrait of the dog’s experiences, particularly his loyalty to Browning. Woolf uses Flush’s perspective to explore the complexities of Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s life, shedding light on the deep bond they shared.

It’s clear from both Browning’s poem and Woolf’s work that Flush was no ordinary dog—he was a source of strength and comfort for Browning during a time when she needed it most. Through To Flush, My Dog, Browning immortalizes her beloved companion, ensuring that his loyalty will be remembered for generations.

9. How To Flush, My Dog Reflects Browning’s Personal Struggles

The poem To Flush, My Dog isn’t just a tribute to a loyal pet—it’s also a reflection of Browning’s own struggles with illness, isolation, and the need for connection. At the time she wrote the poem, Browning was dealing with significant health issues that kept her confined to her home and largely cut off from society.

Flush provided Browning with the companionship she so desperately needed during this time. The poem reflects Browning’s gratitude for Flush’s constant presence, highlighting how he stayed with her "in that curtained room, / Where no sunbeam brake the gloom." Flush’s ability to bring light and comfort to Browning’s darkest days speaks to the therapeutic role that pets can play in our lives.

Moreover, the poem can be seen as a reflection of Browning’s longing for deeper connections—both with people and with the world outside her sickroom. While Browning was physically isolated, her relationship with Flush provided her with a sense of connection and love. This is particularly poignant in the stanza where she describes how Flush "crept and crept / Next a languid cheek that slept, / Sharing in the shadow." Flush’s physical closeness symbolizes the emotional closeness Browning craved.

In this way, To Flush, My Dog is not just a poem about a dog—it’s a poem about survival, resilience, and the importance of companionship during difficult times. Browning’s personal struggles are woven throughout the poem, giving it a depth of emotion that resonates with readers.

10. The Poem’s Legacy in Victorian and Modern Literature

To Flush, My Dog made an impact in Victorian literature by offering a heartfelt portrayal of the bond between humans and their pets. In an era when pets were increasingly seen as companions rather than just working animals, Browning’s poem helped solidify the cultural shift toward viewing dogs as beloved family members.

In modern times, To Flush, My Dog continues to be celebrated as one of the most touching tributes to a pet ever written. The poem’s themes of loyalty, love, and companionship are universal, resonating with readers who understand the profound impact that pets can have on our lives.

Moreover, To Flush, My Dog has influenced countless writers who explore the relationships between humans and animals in their own work. The poem serves as a reminder of the deep emotional connections we form with our pets, and it encourages us to celebrate the joy, comfort, and love they bring into our lives.

Today, Browning’s poem remains a favorite among pet lovers and literary enthusiasts alike. Its message—that loyalty and love are often found in the quiet, everyday moments we share with our pets—continues to inspire readers more than a century after it was written.

11. Conclusion: A Timeless Tribute to a Loyal Friend

Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s To Flush, My Dog is more than just a poem about a beloved pet—it’s a timeless tribute to loyalty, love, and companionship. Through her rich language and vivid imagery, Browning brings Flush to life on the page, capturing the essence of their bond and the comfort he provided during some of her most difficult moments.

In a world where loyalty can often feel fleeting, To Flush, My Dog reminds us of the steadfast devotion our pets offer us every day. Whether we’re dealing with illness, isolation, or just the ups and downs of life, our pets are there—offering their unconditional love and support.

For Browning, Flush wasn’t just a dog—he was a lifeline, a source of joy, and a constant presence in her life. Through this poem, Browning immortalizes her beloved companion, ensuring that Flush’s loyalty will continue to inspire readers for generations to come.

FAQs

1. What is To Flush, My Dog about?
   To Flush, My Dog is a poem by Elizabeth Barrett Browning that celebrates the loyalty and companionship of her beloved spaniel, Flush. The poem explores themes of love, devotion, and the emotional bond between humans and their pets.

2. Who was Flush?
   Flush was Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s real-life cocker spaniel. He was a gift from Mary Russell Mitford, and he provided Browning with emotional support during her years of illness and isolation. Flush became the subject of both Browning’s poem and Virginia Woolf’s Flush: A Biography.

3. Why is To Flush, My Dog considered significant?
   The poem is significant because it reflects the growing Victorian sentimentality toward pets and portrays the deep emotional bond between Browning and Flush. It helped solidify the idea of pets as beloved companions in literature and continues to resonate with readers today.

4. How does To Flush, My Dog compare to other dog poems?
   Unlike other famous dog poems, which often focus on loyalty after death or in grand moments, To Flush, My Dog celebrates the everyday companionship of a living pet. Browning’s poem is intimate and personal, focusing on the quiet, steadfast loyalty Flush provides.

5. What are the key themes in To Flush, My Dog?
   The key themes in the poem include loyalty, love, companionship, and emotional support. Browning uses vivid imagery and tender language to express her deep bond with Flush and to explore the role he played in her life during times of illness and isolation.