On my travels over the years, I have taken a large number of pictures of predominantly two things – cathedrals and cats. And while I admire the architectural and decorative qualities of ecclesiastical buildings, they don’t quite give me the warm fuzzies like a purring cat curled up on a windowsill. Indeed, there are few things that consistently delight me more than exploring the streets of a new city and turning a corner to find a random cat engaged in behaviors distinctly feline. These customs, which generally consist of one or more of the following activities – sleeping, napping, dozing, lounging, preening, skulking, and the occasional gymnastic exertion – can be identified in the collection of cat photos that follows.
Before we go down that rabbit hole, however, I would like to acknowledge that yes, this post likely publicly cements me in the annals of certifiable crazy cat lady-dom. Though, given the Internet’s preoccupation with cat memes, I’m sure I won’t be judged too harshly for it. And now I leave you with a quote from the late author Ursula K. Le Guin, a woman who truly understood the dignified beauty of the cat and the human drive to capture and corral it.
Cats have a sense of appearance. Even when they’re sitting doing the wash in that silly position with one leg behind the other ear, they know what you’re sniggering at. They simply choose not to notice. I knew a pair of Persian cats once; the black one always reclined on a white cushion on the couch, and the white one on the black cushion next to it. It wasn’t just that they wanted to leave cat hair where it showed up best, though cats are always thoughtful about that. They knew where they looked best. The lady who provided their pillows called them her Decorator Cats.
Ursula K. Le Guin – The Wave in the Mind: Talks and Essays on the Writer, the Reader, and the Imagination
The cat nappers
One of the more common varieties you’ll come across in the urban wilds. It is in this state that the cat is most precious – and deceptive – eyes drawn tight to angled slits and delicate whiskers tremoring ever so slightly. The tail artfully coils around it in protective embrace and splayed legs stretch out little paws, so dear in sleep, sheathing tiny daggers.
The models
May be seen confidently sauntering around town, oftentimes with a gaggle of cat-obsessed paparazzi in tow. Favorite pastimes include rolling about for the camera and reclining in elegant repose, as well as throwing hissy fits over the help and stalking off in disgusted huffs.
Cattitude
Just like everyone’s got that one crazy uncle, there’s always that one cat that’s a little off. Brazen and a bit wild, he is forever up to some tomfoolery, shenanigans, and all around no good. But boy, he sure knows how to have a good time and has no problem letting you know it.
The sight-seers
These cats appreciate a beautiful view and are known to while their days away people-watching. Take a page from their book by taking the time to find a pleasant spot to sit down, relax, and take it all in. Don’t be afraid to let that busy world just pass you right on by.
The grumps
Most commonly encountered when interrupted from one of their aforementioned preferred activities (sleeping, napping, dozing, lounging, etc). A cross cat is certainly not to be trifled with, for their patience is quickly thinning and those dear little claws are now unsheathed.
The goofballs
Just in case the death stares in the previous photos are putting you off of cat photography, or cats in general, we have here some fine specimens of the derpy variety. Because for all their slender grace and predator cunning – let’s be honest here – cats are bizarre animals.
The shy ones
There are those cats who, like some people, prefer the quiet solitude of a peaceful park to the teaming of a bustling square. Capturing this elusive creature on camera is no easy feat but is well worth the effort, as I’m sure the subjects here would agree.
The groupies
Much like high school cliques, certain crowds ride together. Where one of these members gather, more are sure to follow. The ensuing antics make for excellent entertainment for all parties involved.
The salesmen
Every good salesman knows that if you want to sell something, you have to act like you don’t care about the sale at all. And these felines have mastered the subtle art of nonchalance. Just watch that you don’t walk away with a new pair of shoes and the cat too.
One thought on “Around the World in Cats”