Write a Note on the Significance of the Symbols Used in “Cat in the Rain.”

Answer

Write a note on the significance of the symbols used in “Cat in the Rain.”

“Cat in the Rain” is a short story written by American author Ernest Hemingway (1899-1961). Published in 1925, it is a brief yet powerful narrative that explores themes of isolation, unmet desires, and the search for fulfillment. The story is set in a hotel on the Italian coast where an American couple is staying.

Several symbols are present in “Cat in the Rain,” each contributing to the overall atmosphere and thematic depth of the narrative:

The Cat: The Cat is a central symbol in the story and represents the American wife’s unfulfilled desires and yearnings for something more in her life.

I’m going down and get that kitty,’ the American wife said.

The cat becomes a metaphor for the wife’s feelings of emptiness and the need for a meaningful connection or change. Her desire to possess the cat reflects her desire to have a baby. She says to George,

Anyway, I want a cat,’ she said, ‘I want a cat. I want a cat now. If I can’t have long hair or any fun, I can have a cat.

The Rain: The constant rain in the story serves as a backdrop and intensifies the emotional atmosphere. It symbolizes the emotional “rain” in the characters’ lives and their discontent. The rain creates a somber mood and mirrors the characters’ internal struggles and the sense of isolation.

His wife was looking out of the window. It was quite dark now and still raining in the palm trees.

The War Monument: The war monument in the public garden represents a distant, unresolved past. It stands as a reminder of historical events.

Their room was on the second floor facing the sea. It also faced the public garden and the war monument.

The War Monument represents a dark symbol, representing the emotional distance in the couple’s relationship.

The Hotel: