Death to Feminists in Ode to the Death of a Favorite Cat

Death to Feminists in Ode to the Death of a Favorite Cat

For any scholar, the feminist method of criticizing literature is something that can no longer be pushed under the carpet and ignored. But before this modern idea overruns literary society and causes many great pains, one should read a simple, yet subtle, poem by English poet Thomas Gray. In "Ode to the Death of a Favorite Cat, Drowned in a Tub of Goldfishes", Gray gives a solemn warning to those who would use Feminism too freely and without checks to guards its attempts to overrun literary criticisms.

Feminist critique is a relatively new method. It has its origins in the 1950's and 60's but did not really take shape until the feminist movements of the 70's and 80's. Only in the 90's has it become standard in textbooks. This triumph of feminine thought has come to a head, and many authors seek to use this technique to criticize society. Authors such as Eleanor Wilner, for example, have used their feminist poetry to slander the "male-dominated" society in which humans currently reside.

Before this method runs amuck, however, one should consider the fate of one who aims for the triumph of feminist thought, or "gold" as Thomas Gray phrases it, too hastily. Thomas Gray exemplifies this in "Ode to the Death of a Favorite Cat" by using the cat as a symbol for the females who seek to use the method for their own ends, such as Eleanor Wilner. In line 23, Gray notes, "What female heart can gold despise?" This 250-year-old question serves as an ominous warning for those who see it.

Using the feminist method again and again can also lead to trouble. With time, people may become so fed up with the idea that everything views women as inferiors that it may become an idea on its own. Without a following, the idea will cease to be practiced. The following Gray points out are Dolphin, Nereid, Tom, and Susan, but none came to save their drowning comrade for "A fav'rite has no friend!" (Line 34-36)