1. Introduction to T.S. Eliot and His Love for Cats

Did you know that one of the greatest literary figures of the 20th century was also a self-professed cat lover?

T.S. Eliot, renowned for his complex poetry like The Waste Land and Four Quartets, had a surprisingly playful side when it came to felines.

His affection for cats wasn’t just a personal hobby—it inspired an entire collection of whimsical poetry in Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, in which The Naming of Cats featured.

These poems would later spark Andrew Lloyd Webber’s hit musical Cats, but their charm endures in their original literary form.

Why, you may ask, did T.S. Eliot believe that cats need three unique names? The answer lies in one of his most beloved poems, The Naming of Cats, which delves into the mystical, quirky, and oh-so-serious art of naming our feline friends.

But first, let’s enjoy the poem itself.

2. "The Naming of Cats" Poem

Let’s take a moment to immerse ourselves in the brilliance of Eliot’s work. Here is the full recital of The Naming of Cats:

The Naming of Cats is a difficult matter,
It isn’t just one of your holiday games;
You may think at first I’m as mad as a hatter
When I tell you, a cat must have THREE DIFFERENT NAMES.

First of all, there’s the name that the family use daily,
Such as Peter, Augustus, Alonzo or James,
Such as Victor or Jonathan, George or Bill Bailey—
All of them sensible everyday names.

There are fancier names if you think they sound sweeter,
Some for the gentlemen, some for the dames:
Such as Plato, Admetus, Electra, Demeter—
But all of them sensible everyday names.

But I tell you, a cat needs a name that’s particular,
A name that’s peculiar, and more dignified,
Else how can he keep up his tail perpendicular,
Or spread out his whiskers, or cherish his pride?

Of names of this kind, I can give you a quorum,
Such as Munkustrap, Quaxo, or Coricopat,
Such as Bombalurina, or else Jellylorum—
Names that never belong to more than one cat.

But above and beyond there’s still one name left over,
And that is the name that you never will guess;
The name that no human research can discover—
But THE CAT HIMSELF KNOWS, and will never confess.

When you notice a cat in profound meditation,
The reason, I tell you, is always the same:
His mind is engaged in a rapt contemplation
Of the thought, of the thought, of the thought of his name:
His ineffable effable
Effanineffable
Deep and inscrutable singular Name.

3. Exploring the Three Names Explained

Now that you’ve immersed yourself in Eliot’s delightful rhyme, let’s break it down. Why three names? Is this just Eliot’s whimsy, or is there something deeper at play?

The Everyday Name

The first name is practical—“the name that the family use daily.” These are the household names we bestow upon our pets, like Whiskers, Mittens, or Socks. They’re easy to remember, functional, and, let’s admit, sometimes a bit unimaginative. Eliot, however, doesn’t stop there.

The Unique Name

Next comes the name that’s “peculiar, and more dignified.” These are names that capture the cat’s individuality and sense of pride. Think Bombalurina or Munkustrap—names that sound grand, mysterious, and utterly feline. These names honor the cat’s distinctive character.

The Secret Name

Finally, Eliot gives us the most enigmatic of the trio: the name known only to the cat. This “ineffable” name reflects a cat’s inner mystique, a quality that cat owners understand all too well. It’s the name that explains why your cat stares off into the void or seems lost in philosophical thought as if contemplating the universe itself.

4. Why Cats Deserve Three Names

Eliot’s reasoning is not just poetic—it’s profoundly insightful. Cats, as any cat owner will tell you, are creatures of mystery, personality, and pride. Giving them three names mirrors their multifaceted nature.

Capturing Feline Personality

From aloof to affectionate, cats exhibit a spectrum of behaviors that make them endlessly fascinating. An everyday name might suit their playful side, but a unique name reflects their one-of-a-kind quirks. And that secret name? It’s a nod to their inscrutable depths.

The "Secret Name" and Feline Mystique

Every cat seems to carry a secret—a quiet wisdom or a private joke only they understand. The idea of a secret name captures this perfectly, giving voice to the universal truth that cats are, and always will be, a little unknowable.

5. Literary Analysis of Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats

T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats is a treasure trove of feline-inspired humor and wisdom. Published in 1939, the collection combines Eliot’s playful wit with his deep admiration for cats.

Context of the Book

Written originally as lighthearted poems for his godchildren, the book reflects Eliot’s playful side, a departure from his more serious works. It celebrates the quirks of cats while embedding deeper themes of identity and individuality.

Humor and Depth in Cat Poetry

While the poems are humorous on the surface, they also reflect profound truths about human (and feline) nature. Eliot manages to balance whimsy with wisdom, making these poems just as entertaining for adults as they are for children.

6. Symbolism Behind the Three Names

At first glance, the three names might seem like pure whimsy, but Eliot’s choice is packed with symbolism. Each name represents a facet of feline identity that parallels deeper truths about individuality and self-awareness.

The Deeper Meanings

The everyday name is about how others see the cat. It reflects the outer personality—a name the family and visitors know, such as Fluffy or Tiger. The unique name adds a layer of individuality, a moniker that’s personal and tied to the cat’s essence. But the secret name? It’s the private self—the innermost being, untouched by external influence, known only to the cat.

Connecting Symbolism to Cat Behavior

Ever notice your cat retreat to a quiet corner for no apparent reason? Or the way they sit, statuesque, as if pondering life’s greatest mysteries? Eliot’s secret name encapsulates this ethereal quality, reminding us that cats, like people, are complex creatures with layers we may never fully unravel.

7. The Jellicle Cats Connection

It’s impossible to discuss T.S. Eliot’s cat poems without touching on their transformation into the iconic Broadway musical Cats. Eliot’s feline musings gained a second life when Andrew Lloyd Webber adapted Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats into a theatrical sensation.

How T.S. Eliot’s Naming Theory Inspired Cats

The naming structure in Eliot’s poems plays a central role in the musical. Characters like Rum Tum Tugger and Grizabella embody the poet’s vision of unique and secret names, each with their own story and personality. Eliot’s three-name rule gave the characters a depth that resonated with audiences worldwide.

A Legacy of Cat-Centric Storytelling

The success of Cats cemented Eliot’s place not just in literary history but also in popular culture. It’s a testament to how his seemingly lighthearted poetry can touch on universal themes of identity, individuality, and belonging.

8. Choosing the Perfect Names for Your Cat

Inspired by Eliot’s philosophy, you might wonder how to apply this naming method to your own feline friend. Fear not! Naming your cat using Eliot’s method is as fun as it is meaningful.

Everyday Names

For the practical, day-to-day name, think of something easy and functional. These are the names you’ll use to call your cat to dinner—simple yet endearing, like Bella, Charlie, or Luna.

Playful and Poetic Names

The unique name is where you can let your creativity shine. Draw inspiration from literature, mythology, or even Eliot himself! How about Asparagus, Demeter, or Bombalurina? These names add flair and personality to your cat’s identity.

Honoring T.S. Eliot’s Method

For the secret name, let it remain a mystery. Give your cat a private moniker known only to them, something ineffable and inscrutable. After all, every cat deserves to keep a part of their enigmatic charm.

9. Fun Examples of Famous Cats with Unique Names

Looking for inspiration? Let’s explore some famous cats with unforgettable names.

Fictional Cats in Literature

• Macavity: From Eliot’s own poetry, the master criminal of the feline world.

• Cheshire Cat: The grinning, enigmatic feline from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll.

• Crookshanks: Hermione Granger’s loyal and scruffy companion in the Harry Potter series.

Celebrity Cat Names

• Grumpy Cat: The internet sensation whose real name, Tardar Sauce, perfectly fit her quirky personality.

• Lil Bub: Another online star, whose unique name reflected her one-of-a-kind charm.

10. Why Poetry and Cats Are a Perfect Pair

It’s no coincidence that cats have inspired poets and writers for centuries. Their grace, mystery, and independence make them the ultimate muse.

Felines in Literature Through History

From ancient Egyptian hymns to modern-day Instagram captions, cats have long been celebrated in words. Writers like Charles Baudelaire and Edward Lear have also paid homage to their feline companions, proving that cats and poetry are a timeless combination.

Why Cats Inspire Poets

Cats embody a certain duality: they’re affectionate yet aloof, playful yet contemplative. This complexity makes them an irresistible subject for creative expression, as T.S. Eliot so masterfully demonstrated.

11. Conclusion: What We Can Learn from T.S. Eliot’s Cats

Eliot’s The Naming of Cats is more than just a quirky poem—it’s a reflection of the intricate bond between humans and their feline companions. By giving cats three names, Eliot reminds us to honor their individuality, respect their mystery, and celebrate their quirks. Whether you’re naming a new kitten or reflecting on the personality of your beloved pet, Eliot’s philosophy is a timeless guide.

FAQs

1. What inspired T.S. Eliot to write The Naming of Cats?
T.S. Eliot wrote the poem as part of Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, a collection of playful verses inspired by his love of cats and written for his godchildren.

2. What are the three names every cat needs?
According to Eliot, every cat should have an everyday name, a unique name that reflects their individuality, and a secret name known only to the cat.

3. How can I choose a unique name for my cat?
Draw inspiration from literature, mythology, or personal experiences. Look for names that capture your cat’s unique personality or quirks.

4. Why is the secret name important?
The secret name symbolizes a cat’s inner mystery and individuality, reminding us that every feline has a side we’ll never fully understand.

5. Did T.S. Eliot have cats of his own?
Yes, T.S. Eliot was a devoted cat lover and owned several cats throughout his life, which inspired his feline-focused poetry.