Horae subsecivae. Rab and His Friends, and Other Papers

"Horae subsecivae. Rab and His Friends, and Other Papers" by John Brown is a collection of writings that captures moments of reflection from the late 1800s, with the story "Rab and His Friends" being a central piece where readers discover the special link between a medical student named John and his loyal dog, Rab, touching on themes of devotion, affection, and the deep understanding that can exist between people and animals. The collection begins with John and his buddy Bob stumbling upon a dog fight in Edinburgh, leading to observations about who we are as humans, and introducing the tale of Rab, who becomes a loved friend to John. The story focuses on Rab's loving characteristics, hinting at the emotional connections that the characters share, mixing lessons of kindness with life's inevitable losses, and crafting a tone that blends humor, sorrow, and clear observations of people and dogs alike.