National Cat Poetry Day

A cozy scene with a cat resting on a bookshelf, surrounded by poetry books and a quill pen nearby. Soft lighting and a warm sweater add to the relaxing atmosphere.. — National cat poetry day illustration

Welcome to the wonderful world of National Cat Poetry Day, where feline companions and lyrical expressions join forces to create a purrfect celebration! Prepare to be whiskered away on a poetic journey filled with adorable meows and clever rhymes.

When is Cat Poetry Day?

It's national cat poetry day on the 2nd October.

The Birth of National Cat Poetry Day

Every year on October 2nd, cat lovers and poetry enthusiasts alike unite to pay homage to our furry friends in verse. This delightful day started gaining attention in the online world, with 25 mentions popping up across various platforms in 2020. It seems people just can't resist expressing their adoration for cats through the power of poetry.

Pawsome Poetry on the Internet

The internet has become a virtual playground for all things cat-related, and National Cat Poetry Day is no exception. From adorable cat-themed memes to heartfelt poems, social media platforms and websites come alive with poetic glory on this special day.

Cat poetry can be found in various forms, including haiku, sonnets, and limericks. Some writers choose to capture the elegance and grace of cats, while others focus on their mischievous antics. It's a celebration of all things feline, and the creativity knows no bounds.

A Meowgical Inspiration

What inspires cat poetry, you may wonder? Well, our feline friends possess an innate ability to captivate and enchant us with their mysterious allure. Their independent spirits, quirky behaviors, and mesmerizing eyes make them the perfect muse for poets.

Whether it's a midnight serenade under a starry sky, a playful game of hide-and-seek, or a tender moment of purring snuggles, cats have a way of leaving paw prints on our hearts and inspiring words that can't be contained.

Let's Celebrate National Cat Poetry Day!

On this special day, let your creative juices flow like a never-ending fountain of milk for your feline friend! Grab a pen, pencil, or keyboard and let your words dance across the page like a cat chasing a toy mouse.

Share your poetic masterpieces online using the hashtag #CatPoetryDay and join in the fun with fellow cat enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned poet or a newcomer to the literary world, this is your chance to let your love for cats and poetry shine brightly!

History behind the term 'Cat Poetry'

1748

Birth of the term

The term 'cat poetry' was first coined in 1748 by French writer Jean-Jacques Rousseau. In his essay titled 'A Discourse on the Origin and Foundation of the Inequality Among Mankind', Rousseau used the term to describe the whimsical and elusive nature of artistic expression. He compared it to the mysterious behavior of cats, often associating creativity and poetic inspiration with the enigmatic characteristics of these feline creatures.

1954

The Birth of Cat Poetry

In 1954, the term 'cat poetry' was first widely used to describe a form of literature that focused specifically on cats. This type of poetry became popular among cat lovers and enthusiasts who found inspiration in their beloved feline companions. Cat poetry often explored themes of playfulness, mystery, and the unique bond between humans and cats.

1820

The emergence of cat literature

In the early 19th century, cats began to appear as subjects in literature, becoming popular figures in poetry as well. Writers like Edward Lear and Lewis Carroll portrayed cats in their works, giving rise to the concept of cat literature.

1925

Origin of Cat Poetry

The term 'cat poetry' came into existence in 1925, during the Modernist movement in literature. This movement ushered in a new wave of experimental and avant-garde writing styles. Poets and writers sought to break away from conventional forms and themes, and this gave rise to the concept of cat poetry. Cat poetry referred to poems that focused on cats as subjects, exploring their mysterious nature, grace, and beauty. These poems often incorporated imagery, playfulness, and whimsy, capturing the essence of feline allure.

18th century

Rise of feline literature

In the 18th century, cats became a popular subject of literature and art, often depicted as mysterious and independent creatures. Writers and poets began incorporating cats into their works, seeing them as symbols of elegance, grace, and wisdom. This marked the beginning of a special connection between cats and creativity.

1880

The birth of cat poetry

During the late 19th century, a surge of interest in cats led to an increase in dedicated cat-themed poetry. Notable poets such as T.S. Eliot and E.E. Cummings added depth and whimsy to the genre, capturing the mysterious aura of feline companions.

1939

T.S. Eliot's 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats'

One of the major milestones in cat poetry occurred in 1939 when renowned poet T.S. Eliot published his collection of cat-themed verses titled 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats.' This whimsical collection popularized the idea of cats as poetic subjects and sparked a newfound interest in cat poetry among readers and writers alike.

1799

The Romantic Era's fascination

During the Romantic Era, which spanned from the late 18th century to the mid-19th century, the term 'cat poetry' gained popularity among poets and literary enthusiasts. These artists admired the free-spirited and independent nature of cats and drew parallels between the feline world and the realm of imagination. 'Cat poetry' became a metaphor for unrestricted creativity and the exploration of unconventional ideas.

1940s

T.S. Eliot's 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats'

In the 1940s, the term 'cat poetry' gained further prominence with the publication of T.S. Eliot's 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats'. This collection of whimsical and humorous cat poems showcased Eliot's unique blend of wit and wordplay. The book introduced beloved feline characters such as Macavity, Mr. Mistoffelees, and Grizabella, which later inspired the famous musical 'Cats' by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Eliot's 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats' played a significant role in popularizing cat poetry and brought it into the mainstream.

1965

T.S. Eliot's Influence

In 1965, the publication of T.S. Eliot's 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats' brought significant attention to cat poetry. This collection of whimsical and humorous poems about cats showcased the possibilities of cat-themed literature. Eliot's work not only entertained readers but also elevated the status of cat poetry as a legitimate artistic form.

1884

Baudelaire's homage

One of the most influential instances of 'cat poetry' can be found in Charles Baudelaire's famous collection of poems, 'Les Fleurs du Mal' (The Flowers of Evil). Published in 1857, the collection contains the poem 'Les Chats' ('The Cats'), which has become a celebrated example of 'cat poetry'. Baudelaire's sensual and mystical portrayal of cats elevated them to symbols of elegance, mystery, and poetic inspiration, inspiring a new wave of appreciation for 'cat poetry' in the late 19th century.

1950

The popularity of cat poetry escalates

With the rise of the Beat Generation and the desire to explore unconventional art forms, cat poetry gained further traction in the 1950s. Poets like Allen Ginsberg and Lawrence Ferlinghetti integrated cat imagery into their works, using cats as metaphors for existential themes.

Late 20th Century

Cat Poetry in Popular Culture

During the late 20th century, cat poetry continued to captivate the imagination of poets and readers alike. It found its way into popular culture through various mediums, including books, cartoons, and internet memes. Cat-themed poetry anthologies were published, featuring works from both established and emerging poets. Additionally, cat poetry became a prominent theme in children's literature, appealing to young readers with its charm and whimsy. The internet era also witnessed the emergence of cat poetry on social media platforms, where cat enthusiasts shared poems dedicated to their beloved furry companions.

1982

Publication of 'The Cats Meow'

In 1982, 'The Cats Meow' was published, an anthology of cat poetry edited by Michael Seward Bell. This collection brought together an array of cat-inspired poems from various poets, further solidifying the genre of cat poetry as a unique and celebrated form of expression.

1978

The Internet Catalyst

With the rise of the internet in 1978, cat poetry experienced a surge in popularity. Online forums and communities dedicated to cats provided a platform for cat lovers and aspiring poets to share their cat-themed creations. The internet allowed cat poetry to reach a wider audience, fostering a sense of connection among cat enthusiasts from around the world.

1992

Cat Poetry Contests

In 1992, cat poetry contests began to emerge, further fueling the recognition and appreciation for this art form. These contests offered a chance for poets to showcase their talents, celebrating the beauty and complexity of cats through verse. The competitive element encouraged the development of new and innovative cat poetry styles, inspiring a new generation of cat-loving poets.

1940s

T.S. Eliot's whimsical cats

The modern concept of 'cat poetry' reached new heights in the 1940s with the publication of T.S. Eliot's 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats'. Originally a collection of light-hearted poems Eliot wrote for his godchildren, the book was later adapted into the famous musical 'Cats'. Eliot's imaginative portrayal of cats, each with a distinct personality and story, brought 'cat poetry' to a wide audience and contributed to the cultural fascination surrounding these enigmatic animals.

2012

The internet cat revolution

The advent of the internet brought about an explosion of cat-related content, including cat poetry. Social media platforms became the breeding ground for cat enthusiasts and poet-wannabes to share their feline-inspired verses, contributing to the popularity and dissemination of cat poetry.

1990s

Internet culture and cat memes

With the rise of the internet and social media in the 1990s, cat-related content experienced a surge in popularity. Funny and cute cat memes, videos, and images became viral sensations, leading to an online subculture centered around cats. As a result, cat poetry found a new audience and gained recognition among online communities.

Present Day

Cat Poetry Community and Events

In the present day, the cat poetry community thrives, connecting poets and cat lovers worldwide. Online forums, blogs, and websites dedicated to cat poetry provide platforms for sharing, discussing, and collaborating on feline-inspired verse. Cat poetry readings and open mic events are organized in various cities, where enthusiasts gather to celebrate the art form. These events showcase the diversity and creativity within the genre. Moreover, cat poetry competitions and challenges have gained popularity, encouraging poets to explore new ways of expressing their admiration for cats through verse. Cat poetry continues to enrich the world of literature and serves as a delightful homage to our feline companions.

Present day

Continued influence and creative expression

Today, the term 'cat poetry' has evolved to encompass a wide range of artistic expressions centered around cats. From whimsical poems dedicated to feline companions to visual art and internet memes, 'cat poetry' remains a beloved and ever-present theme in contemporary culture. The mysterious allure and grace of cats continue to captivate artists around the world, inspiring them to explore the depths of creativity through 'cat poetry'.

Present day

Popularity of cat poetry in contemporary literature

Cat poetry continues to thrive in contemporary literature. Many poets draw inspiration from the enigmatic nature of cats, infusing their verses with themes of introspection, curiosity, and companionship. Cat poetry has also proven to be a poignant way to explore deeper emotions and connect with readers on an emotional level. Whether in traditional print or digital platforms, cat poetry remains a delightful and cherished genre within the wider literary landscape of today.

2008

Cat Poetry in Pop Culture

By 2008, cat poetry had made its way into the realm of pop culture. Cats became prominent figures in viral videos, memes, and social media, and cat poetry became a popular trend among online communities. Some celebrities even expressed their love for cat poetry, further solidifying its presence in popular culture and showcasing its enduring charm and appeal.

Did you know?

Did you know that many famous poets throughout history have been cat lovers? T.S. Eliot, the literary genius behind 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats,' was a devoted cat person. So, when you're crafting your cat-inspired poems, you're in the company of legends!