'The Ad-Dressing Of Cats' by T.S. Eliot
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You've read of several kinds of Cat,
And my opinion now is that
You should need no interpreter
To understand their character.
You now have learned enough to see
That Cats are much like you and me
And other people whom we find
Possessed of various types of mind.
For some are same and some are mad
And some are good and some are bad
And some are better, some are worse--
But all may be described in verse.
You've seen them both at work and games,
And learnt about their proper names,
Their habits and their habitat:
But
How would you ad-dress a Cat?
So first, your memory I'll jog,
And say: A CAT IS NOT A DOG.
And you might now and then supply
Some caviare, or Strassburg Pie,
Some potted grouse, or salmon paste--
He's sure to have his personal taste.
(I know a Cat, who makes a habit
Of eating nothing else but rabbit,
And when he's finished, licks his paws
So's not to waste the onion sauce.)
A Cat's entitled to expect
These evidences of respect.
And so in time you reach your aim,
And finally call him by his NAME.
So this is this, and that is that:
And there's how you AD-DRESS A CAT.
Editor 1 Interpretation
The Ad-Dressing of Cats by T.S. Eliot: A Critique and Interpretation
What can be said about T.S. Eliot's mastery of poetry that has not already been said? His works have been studied, critiqued, analyzed, and celebrated for decades, and yet they continue to captivate readers with their depth, complexity, and beauty. One of his lesser-known poems, The Ad-Dressing of Cats, is a prime example of Eliot's skill in crafting poetry that is both playful and profound.
The Poem
The Ad-Dressing of Cats is a poem that celebrates the unique qualities of felines and the art of naming them. The poem is divided into two parts - the first describes the various ways in which cats are named and the second provides guidance on how to properly address a cat. The tone of the poem is lighthearted and whimsical, but beneath the surface lies a deeper appreciation for the complexity and mystery of cats.
Analysis
The Ad-Dressing of Cats is a poem that is rich with imagery, allusions, and metaphors. In the first part of the poem, Eliot explores the many ways in which cats are named. He begins by describing the various types of cats and their attributes:
First of all, there's the name that's peculiar, And carries a badge - it is usually double, A name that's peculiar, and more dignified, Else how can he keep up his tail perpendicular, Or spread out his whiskers, or cherish his pride?
The use of the word "peculiar" here suggests that cats are unique and not easily defined. The reference to a "badge" implies that cats have a sense of identity and a pride in their individuality. The line "Or spread out his whiskers, or cherish his pride?" is particularly telling - it suggests that cats are not only aware of their own beauty but take pleasure in it as well.
Eliot goes on to describe the various names that cats are given, from the practical to the fanciful:
Then the names of the cats, such as Munkustrap, Quaxo, or Coricopat, Such names that would make you hold your breath, Till your hair stood up on end, Such as Bombalurina, or else Jellylorum- Names that never belong to more than one cat.
The names themselves are a form of art, each one carefully chosen to reflect the cat's personality, appearance or behavior. The naming of cats is not a trivial matter - it is an important part of the bond between humans and felines.
In the second part of the poem, Eliot provides guidance on how to properly address a cat. He begins by acknowledging the difficulty of the task:
When you notice a cat in profound meditation, The reason, I tell you, is always the same: His mind is engaged in a rapt contemplation Of the thought, of the thought, of the thought of his name
The repetition of the word "thought" emphasizes the importance of the cat's name and the reverence with which it should be treated. Eliot goes on to describe the proper way to address a cat, depending on its mood and temperament:
But I tell you, a cat needs a name that's particular, A name that's peculiar, and more dignified, Else how can he keep up his tail perpendicular, Or spread out his whiskers, or cherish his pride?
The use of the word "particular" again emphasizes the uniqueness of cats and the importance of finding the right name for each individual. The reference to the cat's tail and whiskers suggests that the name is not just a label, but a way of empowering the cat and enhancing its sense of self-worth.
As the poem comes to a close, Eliot reminds us of the mystery and complexity of cats:
But above and beyond there's still one name left over, And that is the name that you never will guess; The name that no human research can discover- But THE CAT HIMSELF KNOWS, and will never confess.
This final stanza is perhaps the most profound - it suggests that cats are more than just pets or companions, but beings with a mystery and depth that humans can never fully understand. The cat's name is not just a label, but a part of its very essence, a secret that only the cat itself can truly know.
Conclusion
The Ad-Dressing of Cats is a poem that is both playful and profound, celebrating the unique qualities of felines and the art of naming them. Eliot's use of imagery, allusions, and metaphors creates a rich and complex tapestry of meaning that rewards careful analysis and interpretation. Through the poem, Eliot reminds us of the mystery and complexity of cats, and the importance of treating them with the respect and dignity they deserve. It is a poem that will continue to captivate readers for generations to come.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
The Ad-Dressing Of Cats: A Masterpiece of T.S. Eliot
T.S. Eliot is one of the most celebrated poets of the 20th century, and his works have been studied and analyzed by scholars and literature enthusiasts alike. Among his many works, The Ad-Dressing Of Cats stands out as a unique and captivating poem that showcases Eliot's mastery of language and his ability to create vivid imagery.
The poem, which was first published in 1939, is a playful and whimsical ode to cats and their peculiar habits. It is written in a conversational tone, as if the speaker is addressing the reader directly, and it is full of witty observations and clever wordplay.
The poem begins with the speaker addressing the reader, asking them if they have ever tried to address a cat. The speaker then goes on to explain that cats are not like dogs, who are eager to please their owners and respond to commands. Cats, on the other hand, are independent creatures who do as they please and cannot be forced to do anything.
The speaker then goes on to describe the various types of cats, from the domesticated house cat to the feral alley cat. He notes that each type of cat has its own unique personality and habits, and that it is important to understand these differences in order to properly address a cat.
One of the most striking aspects of the poem is the way in which Eliot uses language to create vivid imagery. He describes the cats as "jellicle cats" and "pollicle dogs," and he uses words like "gumbie cats" and "mungojerrie and rumpleteazer" to create a sense of playfulness and whimsy.
Eliot also uses repetition and rhyme to great effect in the poem. The phrase "jellicle cats" is repeated throughout the poem, creating a sense of rhythm and musicality. The rhyme scheme is also complex and varied, with lines that rhyme perfectly and others that use slant rhyme or internal rhyme.
Another notable aspect of the poem is the way in which Eliot explores the relationship between humans and cats. He notes that cats are often seen as mysterious and aloof creatures, and that humans are often fascinated by their behavior. He also suggests that cats have a certain power over humans, as they are able to manipulate and control their owners with their charm and charisma.
Overall, The Ad-Dressing Of Cats is a masterful work of poetry that showcases Eliot's skill as a writer and his deep understanding of human nature. It is a playful and whimsical ode to cats, but it also contains deeper insights into the relationship between humans and animals. Whether you are a cat lover or not, this poem is sure to delight and entertain you with its clever wordplay and vivid imagery.
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