Song dynasty scholar’s ancient poems shows love for cats to be eternal

Reflections from a Song dynasty poet have offered a familiar insight into life and the love of cats.

Sci-fi and fantasy author, and Chinese history buff, Xiran Jay Zhao explained how life back then wasn’t so different to now, especially when it comes to the life of a person and their cat. Or, to be more accurate, a cat and their slave.

The young writer explains that even 800 years ago cats were brought into the home for whatever reason (in this case to stop rats munching on the poet’s books) and they end up as masters of the household. No cat accepts position as a mere pet or mouse hunter- they are to be adored and fed fish at the very least!

The poet and scholar Lu You falls in love with their new friend, and expresses his contentedness through poetry.

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