Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats Study Guide

This chapter is entitled the Naming of Cats. It is proposed that cats have three names, each signifying something different. Their first name is the name that humans give them and is usually quite common. This name is something simple and easy to remember, such as James or Peter. However, even fancier names such as Plato and Demeter may be given to a cat. Simple or ornate, such a name is still only the first name of a cat. The second name is a nickname of sorts, and no other cat may share it. These names are quite different from everyday names and are quite dignified. Otherwise, a cat would not be able to display such pride and, at times, arrogance. The third name is a name that no human will ever discover. This is a name that only a cat knows and will never tell. Whenever you see a cat deep in meditation, it is not simply dozing in the sun. It is contemplating this name, which is completely its own. (read more)