The Book, Cat, & Cat Book Lovers Almanac

of historical trivia regarding books, cats, and other animals. Actually this blog has evolved so that it is described better as a blog about cats in history and culture. And we take as a theme the advice of Aldous Huxley: If you want to be a writer, get some cats. Don't forget to see the archived articles linked at the bottom of the page.

August 4, 2009

Aug. 4, 1792

Shelley's birthday is August 4, 1792. This major poetic voice includes in his juvenile verse a charming set about a cat:

VERSES ON A CAT

A CAT in distress,
Nothing more, nor less ;

Good folks, I must faithfully tell ye,
As I am a sinner,
It waits for some dinner

To stuff out its own little belly.

You would not easily guess
All the modes of distress

Which torture the tenants of earth ;
And the various evils,
Which like so many devils,

Attend the poor souls from their birth.

Some a living require,

And others desire An old fellow out of the way ;

And which is the best

I leave to be guessed, For I cannot pretend to say.

IV

One wants society,
Another variety,

Others a tranquil life ;
Some want food,
Others, as good,

Only want a wife.

But this poor little cat
Only wanted a rat,

To stuff out its own little maw ;
And it were as good
Some people had such food,

To make them hold their jaw !

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