Kipling's cat that walked by itself? - briefly
"The Cat That Walked By Itself" is a poem written by Rudyard Kipling in his collection "Just So Stories". The poem humorously explores the idea of cats being independent and self-sufficient animals.
Kipling's cat that walked by itself? - in detail
Rudyard Kipling's poem "The Cat That Walked by Himself" is a captivating exploration of the feline nature and its independence, encapsulating the essence of what makes cats unique among domesticated animals. The poem is part of Kipling's collection "Just So Stories," which delves into imaginative explanations for how various aspects of the world came to be.
In "The Cat That Walked by Himself," Kipling narrates a playful yet profound tale about the origins of cats and their relationship with humans. The story begins with the cat's ancestor, a wild creature that lived in the jungle. This early feline was characterized by its self-reliance and autonomy, qualities that have been passed down to modern cats. The poem describes how this ancient cat interacted with other animals and eventually encountered humans.
One of the central themes of the poem is the cat's inherent independence. Unlike dogs, which are portrayed as eager to please their human companions, cats maintain a certain aloofness. Kipling highlights this by noting that while the dog was domesticated and became man's best friend, the cat chose a different path. The cat decided to coexist with humans on its own terms, retaining its wild nature and refusing to be fully tamed or controlled.
Kipling also emphasizes the cat's intelligence and cunning. The poem describes how the cat outsmarts other animals in the jungle, demonstrating a level of wisdom and strategy that is both admirable and intimidating. This intellectual prowess is another trait that has been preserved in domestic cats, who are often known for their ability to solve puzzles and understand complex situations.
The poem's title itself, "The Cat That Walked by Himself," underscores the cat's autonomous nature. Unlike other animals that were domesticated through a process of selective breeding and training, cats chose their own path. They retained their independence while still benefiting from the comforts and security provided by human companionship.
In conclusion, Rudyard Kipling's poem "The Cat That Walked by Himself" offers a delightful and insightful look into the nature of cats. Through his narrative, Kipling celebrates the cat's independence, intelligence, and unique relationship with humans. The poem serves as a reminder that even in domestication, cats remain true to their wild roots, walking by themselves in a manner that is both mysterious and endearing.