Do cats belong in every Japanese novel?

Cats have left an indelible paw print on Japanese literature, captivating readers with their mysterious charm and multifaceted symbolism. From folklore to modern novels, these fluffy creatures have long been woven into the fabric of Japanese storytelling. 

In literature, cats often serve as metaphors for independence, unpredictability, and the supernatural. Authors such as Natsume Soseki and Haruki Murakami have prominently featured cats in their works. Soseki’s I Am a Cat, a satirical novel narrated by a nameless feline, cleverly critiques human society from an outsider’s perspective.

Meanwhile, Murakami’s novels frequently include cats as harbingers of otherworldly encounters. Today, cats continue to enchant modern Japanese literature, appearing as symbols of guidance, comfort, and mystery. In works like The Full Moon Coffee Shop by Emi Yagi, cats embody the warmth of connection and healing, drawing lonely souls together in magical, comforting spaces. Similarly, What You Are Looking For Is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama presents cats as quiet observers and subtle guides, enhancing the sense of discovery and personal growth that permeates the narrative. 

But do cats actually play pivotal roles in all these novels currently flooding the market? Are they even necessary for the plotline? These are some of the questions that arose in my mind as I read The Blanket Cats by Kiyoshi Shigematsu. The 300-pager consists of seven interlinked stories, and they all begin with a visit to a pet store where you can rent a cat for three days and two nights. However, not all cats can be rented. The chosen cats are the best of the best — they have a calm temperament and can adapt to the changing environment as long as they have their childhood blankets. 

Throughout the book, people rent cats for various reasons. The first story, The Cat Who Sneezed, revolves around a childless couple trying to fill the void in their lives with a furry friend. Another story focuses on a family who is forced to move homes after the father loses his job. The third story is about a school bully and his secret. 

The Cat That No One Liked is about a couple trying to hide a cat from their stern landlord. This story, in particular, feels more like a filler, with lousy writing and a mundane plot. 

Two of my personal favourite stories were The Cat in the Passenger Seat and The Cat Who Knew How to Pretend. While the former is about a parting journey with a loved one, the latter explores the lengths one can go to for their family. Both stories explore intricate human emotions — emotions we all feel but often fail to acknowledge. 

Of the entire series, there is just one story where the cat is the star of the show — The Cat Who Went On A Journey. Almost every other story in the book can be rewritten by excluding the cat, and it would barely make a difference to the plot. In some stories, the role of the cat almost feels forced, which takes away the warmth and whimsy from the story. 

While the book is entertaining in parts, it fails to tug at the strings of your heart. When you pick up a book that has been marketed as a novel about cats that provide comfort when you need them the most, isn’t that the least you’d expect? A few heartwarming moments that make you want to leave your cosy reading nook and give your cat the squishiest of cuddles. But sadly, that’s not to be. 

Jimbocho is a monthly column where we sift through popular Japanese books. Mail your feedback and suggestions to [e-mail]