Unveiling the Feline Muses: How Cats Shaped the Lives and Works of Literary Giants

A recent episode of "The Pawsitive Post in Conversation" podcast delved into the profound and often overlooked relationships between celebrated authors and their feline companions, drawing insights from literary historian Susannah Fullerton’s acclaimed book, Great Writers and the Cats Who Owned Them. The discussion, featuring hosts Zazie Todd and Kristi Benson, explored how these quiet, observant creatures provided inspiration, companionship, and even therapeutic solace to some of the most influential literary figures from the 18th century to the present day. Fullerton, a leading authority on 19th and 20th-century literature and recipient of the Order of Australia Medal for services to literature, illuminated how the presence of a cat could subtly, yet significantly, shape an author’s creative output and personal well-being.

The podcast episode, number 66 in the series, is available across major podcast platforms including Apple and Spotify, with a video version also accessible on YouTube. It serves as an insightful companion to Fullerton’s book, which has been praised for its delightful anecdotes, historical detail, and charming illustrations, making it a compelling read for both literary enthusiasts and cat lovers alike.

The Enduring Bond: Writers and Their Feline Muses

The notion of a special affinity between writers and cats is a recurring theme in literary history. Zazie Todd posed this question directly to Fullerton, who affirmed the unique connection, describing cats as ideal companions for the solitary endeavor of writing. Unlike dogs, cats demand less active engagement, offering a quiet, comforting presence without the need for walks or constant attention. This allows authors the uninterrupted focus necessary for creative work, while still providing emotional support. Fullerton noted that while cats might occasionally "help" by warming a lap or, more comically, by sitting on a manuscript or keyboard, their primary role often transcends mere presence, extending to becoming genuine sources of inspiration for poems, novels, short stories, and personal correspondence.

Kristi Benson highlighted the value of this unique lens—exploring an author’s life through their relationship with a cat—as a fresh way to understand their creative process and personal world. This approach not only humanizes historical figures but also sheds light on the evolving dynamics of human-animal companionship. The book’s appeal, Fullerton suggested, extends beyond "cataholics" to anyone interested in the history of human-animal bonds and the challenges and joys of sharing one’s life with a pet.

A Historical Perspective on Feline Companionship

The treatment and perception of cats have undergone a dramatic transformation over centuries, a shift meticulously documented in Fullerton’s research. In 18th-century London, for instance, cats were often viewed with suspicion, associated with witchcraft and malevolence, a legacy from the Middle Ages. They were tolerated primarily for their utility in controlling rodent populations rather than cherished as pets. Dr. Samuel Johnson, the venerable lexicographer, stood out as a progressive exception. His profound affection for his cat, Hodge, challenged the prevailing attitudes of his time.

Johnson’s relationship with Hodge epitomized an early form of pet companionship. He would personally purchase oysters, a food then considered humble, for Hodge from a local seller, ensuring his cat was well-fed and cared for. This level of devotion was extraordinary for the era. The enduring legacy of Hodge is commemorated today with a charming statue outside Dr. Johnson’s House in Gough Square, London. The statue depicts Hodge sitting atop a copy of Johnson’s dictionary, accompanied by empty oyster shells, bearing the inscription, "A very fine cat indeed," a testament to the deep bond between the scholar and his feline friend. This anecdote not only illustrates Johnson’s unique character but also marks a pivotal point in the cultural acceptance of cats as cherished household members.

"Great Writers and the Cats Who Owned Them": A Deep Dive

Fullerton’s book, published by the prestigious Bodleian Library in Oxford, is a testament to the depth and breadth of her research. The selection of authors and their cats for inclusion in the book was a deliberate process, aiming for diversity in gender, nationality (including Canadian, American, UK, and New Zealand authors), and the types of cats featured—from pedigree breeds to "ordinary tabbies or moggies." The chronological span, from Dr. Johnson in the 18th century to a living contemporary author, further enhances the book’s historical scope.

One of the challenges in selection, Fullerton revealed, was finding sufficient information on a particular cat’s impact. T.S. Eliot, despite his famous Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, proved difficult to feature with a dedicated chapter due to the scarcity of details about a single, inspiring cat in his personal life. Consequently, Eliot found his place in one of the book’s "little pawses" – charming interstitial sections providing quirky information about other literary cats.

Unearthing Literary Anecdotes

The book is replete with "delightful little anecdotes" that bring these literary figures and their cats to life. Beyond Hodge, other notable felines include:

• Daffy, L.M. Montgomery’s Canadian Companion: Montgomery, the beloved author of Anne of Green Gables, found profound solace and therapy in her cats. Daffy, her companion during the creation of her seminal work, kept her warm during cold Canadian mornings, a quiet witness to the birth of Anne Shirley’s adventures. Montgomery’s journals were filled with tributes to her cats, including "obituaries" and even tufts of fur, underscoring their vital role in her often challenging life, marked by early parental loss, strict grandparents, a difficult marriage, and copyright battles. Her heroines, like Anne and Emily, consistently mirrored her own feline affection, notably when Gilbert Blythe’s second proposal to Anne Shirley included the offer of a cat, a clear sign of his understanding of Anne’s heart.
• Blitz, Dorothy L. Sayers’ War Cat: Found as a tiny ginger kitten in a bomb site during the London Blitz of World War II, Blitz became a beloved companion to the crime novelist Dorothy L. Sayers. Their bond was so strong that Sayers wrote a poignant poem, "War Cat," apologizing to Blitz for the rationing-induced limitations on his diet. Blitz lived to the ripe old age of 15, a testament to Sayers’ care during austere times. Sayers, known for her detective Lord Peter Wimsey, also famously ran "Kittens Unlimited" during the war, fostering and rehoming numerous kittens from her friends, often sending visitors home with an unexpected feline addition to their families. A statue of Dorothy L. Sayers in Witham, Essex, where she lived, features Blitz at her ankles, a permanent tribute to their connection.
• Foss, Edward Lear’s Portly Muse: Edward Lear, celebrated for his limericks and nonsense verse, shared an extraordinary bond with his cat, Foss. Originally named Aderphos, Foss was a portly, striped cat, notable for a missing half-tail (the story of which is detailed in Fullerton’s book). Lear, a talented artist who earned his primary living from painting and drawing, created numerous caricatures of himself and Foss, capturing their unique relationship. A rather lonely man who suffered from epilepsy, Lear found immense companionship in Foss. His devotion was such that he outlived Foss by only a couple of months, having provided his beloved cat with an elaborate tombstone and funeral, far grander than his own. Foss’s influence extended to Lear’s letters and drawings, and he even has his own Wikipedia entry, cementing his place in literary history.
• Bob, Charles Dickens’ Deaf Cat: Even Charles Dickens, initially not a "cat man," was eventually won over by a deaf cat named Bob, brought into his home by his daughter. Bob developed a unique method of gaining Dickens’s attention: he would reach out a paw and snuff out the candle by which Dickens was reading or writing, plunging the author into darkness until he looked up and acknowledged his feline companion. This charming interaction illustrates how even the most resistant individuals could be swayed by a cat’s charm and personality.
• Il Magnifico, Doris Lessing’s Resilient Companion: Doris Lessing’s cat, Il Magnifico, inspired a deeply moving short story, "The Old Age of Il Magnifico," after the cat had to undergo a leg amputation. Lessing’s observations of her disabled cat’s struggle to adapt to life with three legs—navigating stairs and jumping onto furniture—provided a powerful narrative on resilience and the profound bond between humans and their pets.
• Ernest Hemingway’s Multitude of Muses: Ernest Hemingway was a self-proclaimed "cataholic," famously housing 54 cats at his Key West home, all of whom he knew by name. His devotion was such that he immortalized his cat Boise in 35 pages of his novel Islands in the Stream, a testament to the significant role cats played in his life and work. His oft-quoted remark, "If man could be crossed with the cat, it would improve man, but it would deteriorate the cat," perfectly encapsulates his adoration.

The Evolution of Cat Care and Welfare

Fullerton’s research also meticulously traces the historical evolution of cat care and welfare. She explored questions such as the availability of veterinary care across different regions and periods. The first formal veterinary training school emerged in France in the 1700s, but specialized animal medical care was slow to reach remote areas. This meant that authors like Robert Southey, whose cat Rumpelstiltskin (affectionately known as Rumple) fell ill, had limited options for treatment. The book details the advent of innovations like kitty litter and the first books dedicated to cat care, highlighting a gradual but significant shift in societal attitudes towards felines.

Historically, the drowning of kitten litters was a common and grim practice, reflecting a pragmatic view of animal control. Fullerton’s work underscores the long journey from such indifference to the modern era of pet ownership, where cats are often considered integral family members, with dedicated veterinary services, specialized diets, and a vast industry devoted to their well-being. This historical context enriches the understanding of the authors’ relationships with their cats, placing their devotion within the societal norms of their respective times.

Global Literary Connections: Cats Across Continents

The international scope of Great Writers and the Cats Who Owned Them highlights the universal appeal of felines and their cross-cultural influence on literature. From the British Isles to North America and even New Zealand, where Dame Lynley Dodd created beloved characters like Slinky Malinky, cats have permeated literary narratives.

Canada’s Literary Legacy and Feline Friends

L.M. Montgomery’s story is particularly resonant for Canadian audiences. Her personal struggles—including the early loss of her mother, a childhood with strict grandparents who did not share her love for animals, and a challenging marriage marked by her husband’s severe depression—often led her to view cats as essential therapeutic companions. She frequently expressed in her journals how her cats helped her navigate these difficulties, providing unconditional affection and a sense of grounding. The inclusion of cats in her works, such as the aforementioned proposal scene in Anne of Green Gables, subtly communicated their importance to her readership, influencing generations of Canadians and readers worldwide to appreciate these creatures.

Cross-Cultural Impact: Anne and Hanako Muraoka

The podcast discussion concluded with a fascinating recommendation from Susannah Fullerton: Anne’s: The Life and Works of Hanako Muraoka. This book tells the story of the first person to translate Anne of Green Gables into Japanese. Hanako Muraoka, who had been taught by Canadian missionaries in Japan, received a copy of Montgomery’s classic just before World War II. Recognizing the scarcity of wholesome family reading in Japan, Muraoka embarked on the perilous task of translating the book during wartime, when Montgomery was considered an "enemy alien." She risked her safety by secretly working on the manuscript, even carrying it with her to bomb shelters.

Post-war, it took time to find a publisher, but upon its release, Red-Headed Anne (the translated title, adapted because the concept of "gables" was unfamiliar in Japan) became a phenomenal success. Muraoka went on to translate all of Montgomery’s Anne and Emily books, becoming a revered figure in Japan. Her work sparked an enduring Japanese fascination with Prince Edward Island and the world of Anne Shirley, leading to significant literary tourism and cultural exchange. This narrative not only underscores the profound, transformative power of literature but also illustrates how a single book, and by extension, its author’s world (including their cat companions), can bridge cultures and transcend geographical boundaries.

Beyond the Pages: The Broader Implications of Pet-Writer Relationships

The exploration of writer-cat relationships offers several broader implications, touching upon the psychology of creativity, the evolving market for niche literature, and the ongoing advocacy for animal welfare.

Companionship and Creative Inspiration

The consistent theme across Fullerton’s book and the podcast discussion is the role of animals in fostering creativity and mental well-being. For writers, whose craft often demands long hours of solitary contemplation, a pet can mitigate loneliness, reduce stress, and provide a sense of routine and comfort. The quiet observation of a cat’s habits can inspire new characters, plotlines, or simply offer a moment of playful distraction that recharges the creative mind. Mark Twain’s observation that "if man could be crossed with the cat, it would improve man, but it would deteriorate the cat," reflects a deep appreciation for the inherent qualities of felines – their independence, grace, and enigmatic charm – qualities that often resonate with the artistic temperament.

The Expanding Niche in Literary Non-Fiction

The success of Great Writers and the Cats Who Owned Them, published by the Bodleian Library, signals a growing appetite for niche non-fiction that combines established literary history with unconventional perspectives. This trend reflects a broader cultural interest in the personal lives of public figures and the unique ways in which animals enrich human existence. The Bodleian Library’s decision to commission Fullerton for a follow-up book, Great Writers and the Dogs Who Loved Them (slated for 2028), further validates this market. It suggests that readers are increasingly drawn to narratives that offer fresh insights into beloved authors, particularly through the lens of their relationships with pets. This genre bridges literary biography, animal studies, and cultural history, appealing to a diverse readership.

Susannah Fullerton’s Literary Contributions and Future Endeavors

Susannah Fullerton’s work exemplifies the dedication of a literary historian committed to making complex subjects accessible and engaging. Her Order of Australia Medal in 2017 recognized her significant contributions to literature, particularly her expertise in 19th and 20th-century writers and her special interest in Jane Austen. Through her fascinating talks and literary tours across the globe, she brings the lives and writings of great authors to life for international audiences. Upcoming tours to Spain and England promise further immersive literary experiences.

Fullerton also maintains an active online presence, offering a free monthly newsletter, "Notes from a Book Addict," which provides book recommendations, poems, and literary anniversary celebrations. Her website further hosts recorded lectures on famous writers and their works, accessible at low cost, reflecting her commitment to sharing her passion for books with a wider community. The anticipation for her forthcoming book on writers and dogs highlights her continued impact on the literary world and her ability to connect diverse audiences through the shared love of literature and animals.

Engaging the Audience: The Pawsitive Post’s Role

"The Pawsitive Post in Conversation" podcast, hosted by Zazie Todd and Kristi Benson, serves as an important platform for discussions that bridge animal welfare, pet ownership, and broader cultural topics. By inviting experts like Susannah Fullerton, the podcast enriches its content, offering listeners not only practical advice on pet care but also deeper cultural and historical insights. The interactive nature of the show, encouraging listeners to leave comments or voicemails about their own experiences with pets and books, fosters a sense of community and further amplifies the themes explored in episodes like this one. The show’s reach, evident in shout-outs to listeners in places like Perth, Western Australia, underscores its global appeal and its role in fostering a shared appreciation for animals and their impact on human lives.

Conclusion

The "Pawsitive Post" episode featuring Susannah Fullerton not only highlighted the enchanting anecdotes from Great Writers and the Cats Who Owned Them but also underscored the profound, often unacknowledged, influence of cats on the creative and personal lives of literary figures. From Dr. Johnson’s pioneering devotion to Hodge to L.M. Montgomery’s reliance on Daffy for solace, and Edward Lear’s deep companionship with Foss, these stories offer a unique and heartwarming perspective on literary history. Fullerton’s work, both in her book and through her broader literary contributions, enriches our understanding of the enduring bond between humans and animals, demonstrating how these quiet companions can indeed own the hearts, and inspire the minds, of the world’s greatest writers. As the literary world eagerly awaits her next exploration into the lives of authors and their canine companions, the narrative of pets as muses continues to captivate and enlighten.