The cat is domestic only as far as suits its own ends

The cat is domestic only as far as suits its own ends

In the world of Saki, the statement "The cat is domestic only as far as suits its own ends" holds a significant amount of truth. Saki, also known as H.H. Munro, was a master of the short story genre, known for his wit, satire, and dark humor. His stories often featured characters who were cunning, manipulative, and self-serving, much like the cat in the statement.

One of Saki's most famous stories, "The Open Window," perfectly illustrates the idea that the cat is domestic only as far as suits its own ends. In this story, a young girl named Vera tells a visitor a fabricated tale about her aunt's deceased husband and brothers, causing the visitor to flee in terror. Vera's manipulation of the truth serves her own ends, as she finds amusement in the visitor's gullibility and fear. Like the cat in the statement, Vera is domestic in appearance, but her true nature is wild and unpredictable.

Saki often used animals as symbols in his stories, and the cat was a recurring motif. Cats are known for their independence, cunning, and ability to manipulate their surroundings to suit their own needs. In Saki's world, humans are often portrayed as naive and easily deceived, much like the visitors in "The Open Window." The cat, on the other hand, is portrayed as clever and resourceful, always looking out for its own interests.