Skinny Dogs

i.
Janis told me when Alyson was born 
not a single skinny dog went hungry. 
Janis told me when Alyson was born
not a single skinny dog died. 
Years ago I remember dreaming
of gaunt, deer-eyed mutts as they wept.
Years ago I remember dreaming
of Alyson's skinny dogs. 

ii.
September told me when Alyson was young
a skinny dog didn't run fast enough.
September told me when Alyson was young
a cardboard coffin held five not six.
Years ago I remember stories
of the craven mutt with the penny-eye.
Years ago I remember the stories
of Alyson's skinny dog.

iii. 
William told me when Alyson ran
a skinny dog followed her plate-to-plate.
William told me when Alyson ran
he noticed her 'cause of that skinny dog.
Years ago I remember the love
of a skinny dog brought them together.
Years ago I remember the love
of Alyson's skinny dog.

iv.
The first time I ever screamed at Alyson
she asked me why I didn't love her.
The first time I ever screamed at Alyson
she asked me why I wasn't eating.
Years ago I remember knowing
I simply wasn't hungry. 
Years ago I remember knowing
I wasn't her skinny dog.