Incarcerated Scholars Conference Art Gallery 2025

A Man's Best Friend

Anonymous

It sticks by him when others waver and turn their backs...
At times it even makes him doubt his innate ability to wax...
Stronger after facing challenging circumstances...
But it is faithful unto the end through stumbles and advances...
When fed good nutrients it empowers and invigorates...
Filling ever fiber of his being with enthusiasm to elevate...
It inspires when open and directed to that which is noble...
Communicating dreams and hopes for others to behold them...
Like a wild horse untamed until one gains control...
In turn it becomes a light that lead us through the Gates of Gold...
A man's best friend is his God given mind...
With it he creates destiny as he passes through time.

Artist Statement

This work was inspired by my coming a clear realization that the source of my life and its direction is the outcome of my relationship with my most loyal companion, that is, my mind. In the poem I use the word "man" in the ancient sense meaning "humanity" and not the male species only.

If you are the artist of an artwork featured in this gallery and want it removed, please reach out to alliance@higheredinprison.org