History of Cats in Poetry
Exploring the role of cats in poetry is often a captivating affair that gives us a clear insight into the cultural and social history of our feline friends. Did you know that cats have featured prominently in poetry dating back to ancient days? From the Classical Roman Empire to modern day English poets, cats have been integral to the works of some of the most famous writers in history. Let’s take a look back at the tales and poems of cats through the ages.
Ancient Times
Cats have long been associated with both religion and mythology, making them a perfect muse for poets of yesteryear. Ancient cultures such as the Egyptians, Persians and Greeks all celebrated cats in various forms of art including poetry. For instance, The Egyptian Cat Goddess Bastet was the inspiration for many Egyptian love poems while The Greek poet Homer wrote of cats in his epic poem The Iliad. In the Roman era, Ovid’s work Metamorphoses featured cats in several of its stories.
Though these poems may be overlooked in today’s Poetry world, they often serve as a reminder of how these iconic animals were once held in high regard. More than that, these poems remind us to keep our connection with cats strong and also to appreciate the beauty and grace of these animals.
Renaissance to the 19th Century
The Renaissance was a period full of intellectual and artistic exploration, and cats were no exception. This period saw some of the most famous works recreating cats in literature such as William Shakespeare’s Macbeth and Christopher Marlowe’s plays. It was also during this time that the famous poem, ‘The Cat’s Cradle’ by Sir Thomas Wyatt, was first published. Other notable poets during this period include Edmund Spenser, Thomas Gray and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow who wrote of cats in various ways.
In the 18th and 19th century, the fascination with cats grew even further. Poets such as William Wordsworth and Robert Browning wrote poems and stories featuring cats. This was also a period where cats began appearing in various literary works including novels by renowned authors such as Jane Austen and Emily Bronte.
Modern Day Poetry
Modern day poets have not forgotten about cats either. Noted poets such as Seamus Heaney and Andrew Marvell have composed works about cats, bringing the beloved animal back into our current conversations about art and culture. Notable authors such as T.S Eliot and J.R.R Tolkien also wrote about cats in their popular works.
Additionally, the internet has helped to bring cats back into mainstream poetry with many modern day poets seeking inspiration from our furry friends. Popular blogs and websites offering poetry contests or video events inspired by cats have arisen, giving amateur poets an opportunity to showcase their talents. Well-loved writers such as Junot Diaz and Pablo Neruda have also written poems about cats, bringing the animal back into the poetry fold.
Cats in Pop-Culture
Cats have left their mark in modern culture in additional ways. Movies and television shows such as The Aristocats, Garfield and The Cat in the Hat have thematically featured cats prominently in their plot lines, making them a popular household subject. Other forms of media such as musical theaters, musical albums and children’s books have also used cats as integral characters.
Cats have even made their way into the realm of video games. The popular franchise, The Sims, allows players to buy and care for cats, creating an interactive experience between human and feline. As cats evolve, they have taken on a life of their own in pop culture, far beyond the pages of poetry.
The Impact of Cats on Poetry
Cats have been an integral part of poetry through the ages and continue to serve as a source of inspiration for poets around the world. From the ancient cultures to modern day, the impact of cats in poetry has been notable and profound. As their presence in pop-culture continues to grow and evolve, it’s clear that cats in poetry will remain alluring and important for years to come.
Cats in Lyrics and Music
In the world of music, cats have also been a prominent figure for decades. Notable musicians such as Bob Dylan, David Bowie and John Lennon have all created music about cats that captures both the whimsical and mysterious nature of the animal. Additionally, others have explored cats through Jazz, Blues and Rock music, giving the animal a voice in music and lyrics.
Today, Cat Songs are a popular genre among amateur musicians, giving them the opportunity to express their appreciation for cats and bring them to the forefront of popular music. This genre allows poets and lyricists to further explore the unique personalities of cats and create a unique bond between the listener and the animal.
Cat Fursonality
Many cat owners will attest that their cats are truly one of kind individuals, with each having their own individual personalities and quirks. This phenomenon is referred to as ‘Cat Fursonality’, a term coined to describe cats as living beings with their own personalities.
No matter the breed or age, cats demonstrate a range of unique behaviors that can provide plenty of personality traits to explore. Whether they’re lazy, playful, or simply a bit mischievous, each cats personality is something to be appreciated by poets and pet owners alike.
The Power of Poetry
Loneliness, joy, struggle, independence, love – all of these emotions can be found in the eyes of a cat. Poets for centuries have been able to tap into this emotional power when writing about cats, creating an intimate link between the reader and this special animal.
Through their writing, poets help us to understand and appreciate cats like we never thought possible. Pet owners from around the world can feel even more connected to their cats thanks to the emotional depth and insight poetry can provide – and that’s a beautiful thing.
Cats as Healers and Comfort Providers
In the world of pet therapy, cats have a long-standing history as healers and comfort providers. It’s widely accepted that spending time with cats can be profoundly therapeutic, reducing levels of stress and anxiety while also providing emotional support.
Poems about cats have the ability to tell a story of healing, peace and companionship, imbuing these animals with a sense of healing power and strength. To some, cats in poetry can even embody an ideal of unconditional love, showing us that these animals are truly special.
Conclusion
Cats have been a staple of poetry through the centuries, from ancient times to modern day. Their presence has done more than just evoke emotions in poems; it has also provided us with insight into the cultural and social history of the animal. Cats in poetry are the epitome of grace, power and love, and we should continue to celebrate their presence through writing and art.
