Memories of a Dog

More about the book

Daidō Moriyama, referring to himself as a wild dog, has created the "Dog Trilogy," which includes "Memories of a Dog," "Dog's Time," and "Memories of a Dog - Epilogue." His autobiographical work, particularly "Memories of a Dog," first published in 1982, has been reprinted numerous times since its 2001 paperback edition. Moriyama, who left formal education before completing high school, considers the street his school, embarking on a self-taught journey to become a photography master. His strong black-and-white style captures the desolation of urban life, expressing the loneliness and indifference of city dwellers while yearning for connection. His work resonates deeply with urban audiences, earning him acclaim as a master of street photography. The youthful energy in his photographs reflects resilience, appealing to contemporary youth in Japan and beyond. In 1971, an encounter with a stray dog inspired Moriyama to begin photographing these animals, leaving a lasting impression on his artistic identity. "Memories of a Dog" combines this impactful photograph with twenty essays sharing his life experiences, including reflections on family, friends, and travels. Through memory and imagery, he excavates intertwined realities, revealing the meaning of life captured in his work. His unadorned language and keen observations of the city’s corners resonate with a sublime energy, embodying his confrontational approach to photography.