Student Question
What does T. S. Eliot's poem imply by describing Macavity as a ginger cat?
Quick answer:
By describing Macavity as a "ginger" cat, T. S. Eliot implies a yellow-orange color typical of a street-savvy, feral alley cat, rather than a pampered house pet. The term "ginger" in British English denotes a pale orange hue, often used to describe cats with or without tabby markings. This description underscores Macavity's cunning and agile nature, fitting his role as a notorious and elusive criminal figure in the poem.
The term "ginger" is used in British English to refer to a yellow-orange color resembling that of the dried spice ginger, made from the ground root of the ginger plant and commonly used in many Asian cuisines. It applies to cats and also to human redheads.
The term "ginger" refers in this context to a pale orange colored cat. The term "marmalade" is sometimes also used in British English to refer to an orange tabby cat, while "ginger" is an orange colored cat with or without distinctive tabby markings. A picture of a typical "ginger' cat can be seen at: Warren Photographic.
Eliot's description of Macavity suggests a tall, rangy, feral alley cat rather than a plump, well-fed house cat. The criminal nature of the moggie (British slang for cat with no particular pedigree) suggests a free-ranging cat who has adapted with cunning and athleticism to the urban environment.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.