I am a neko
Whether it was in Persia or Africa, the place is far from the birthplace where my ancestors first cried “meow” and returned to the earth. By what fate they traveled over mountains and through valleys to finally arrive at the place where “the sun rises”. Beyond the eastern edge of the continent, small islands lie battered and washed by rough seas and constantly trembling and swaying.
How many years have passed since they began living with the humans who dwell in that land? From the age when oxen pulled oxcarts to the age when electric motors power vehicles, the experience of observing human society with cold eyes while basking in the sun is invaluable beyond measure.
Here, I shall discourse upon the relationship between my kinfolk and humankind, from art and literature to cat stationmasters. I intend to deliver an objective—that is to say, feline—examination of how our existence has become part of their lives.
I should note, the uncredited cat Images are illustrated by Hiroshige Ryusai from Hyakubyo Gafu via the NDL Digital Collections.