What would the theme of cat by Eleanor Farjeon be?
The theme of the poem "Cat" by Eleanor Farjeon revolves around the various qualities and behaviors of cats, emphasizing their independence, mystery, and unique personality traits. Additionally, the poem highlights the deep connection between humans and cats and explores the profound fascination people have with these enigmatic creatures.
To determine the theme of a literary work such as the poem "Cat" by Eleanor Farjeon, we need to carefully analyze the poem's content and symbolism. The poem describes the characteristics and behavior of cats, highlighting their independent and mysterious nature. To understand the theme of the poem, follow these steps:
1. Read and annotate the poem: Begin by reading the poem carefully, paying attention to its structure, language, imagery, and symbolism. Take notes or highlight important phrases or lines that stand out to you.
2. Identify recurring motifs or ideas: Look for any recurring motifs or ideas within the poem. In "Cat," some recurring motifs include words and phrases related to a cat's behavior, such as "across the floor," "night-spell," "secret," "leap," and "curl."
3. Consider the poet's perspective: Reflect on the poet's perspective or point of view. In this case, Eleanor Farjeon portrays the cat as an enigmatic and independent creature, exploring its mysterious nature. This perspective can help shape the poem's theme.
4. Analyze the poem's symbolism: Cats often carry symbolic meanings in literature. Consider what the cat symbolizes in this poem. For example, the cat's agility, grace, and nocturnal nature may represent freedom, independence, or even secret knowledge.
5. Formulate the theme: Based on your analysis, formulate a theme that encompasses the central message or idea of the poem. In the case of "Cat" by Eleanor Farjeon, the theme may relate to the beauty and mystery of the natural world, the allure of freedom and independence, or the enigmatic nature of existence itself.
Remember, when determining the theme of a poem or any literary work, there may be multiple valid interpretations. The above steps should serve as a guide to help you analyze the poem and arrive at a well-supported theme.