Poetry of Dementia from author Karen Pryor

Jan 5

I read today that a true pioneer in the world of human and animal behavior, has passed away. Karen Pryor, age 92 left this earth January 4, 2025. I have read numerous books written by Karen, but I am really just beginning to learn about the natural-born scientist she was.

Most would admit that succuming to dementia is a tragedy, I am one that believed this and lived this through both of my parents. Reading about Karen’s journey through this final chapter of her incredible life seems to have been just another phase of wonder. She continued to write and journal as she observed her own splintered mind.

She renamed things around her when she couldn’t recall what they were, just like poetry of dementia. Her daughter, Gale Pryor, wrote. “When my mother speaks, she strings together words, pulling them in odd pairings from the curling fuzz in her brain. “Curling fuzz” is her phrase, words that capture what dementia feels like from the inside.” Gale’s article about Karen is a must read.

In early years of dementia, my mom would often say, …”I can’t remember my words!” As years progressed it was often frustrating beyond tears for her as she struggled through the phases of dementia.

Karen lived a life of incredible wonder, always looking closely at everything around her and then putting into words her observations and theory. She brought positive reinforcement clicker training to the dog and zoo world.

To honor Karen’s memory I will continue to ‘look closely’ and observe the little things that make our world wonderful.

Rest in peace.