Hemingway's "Cat in the Rain" focuses on a typical
American wife's disillusionment with marriage. On the surface, Kitty and George seem to
be living a rather romantic lifestyle. They are staying in Italy and have nothing but
time to spend with one another. The problem is, however, that Kitty wants attention and
affection that George is either unwilling or unable to provide. When Kittymentions that
she wants to go down and get the cat, George barely responds. Later, Kitty thinks about
how much she enjoys the hotel keeper's respectful attitude toward her--that is what she
longs for from her husband. In the end, Kitty is the figurative "cat in the
rain."
The story not only represents Hemingway's portrayal
of an American marriage but also his view of America in general. The author was part of
the Lost Generation--the group of young Americans who became disillusioned with their
country after World War I and who left for "greener pastures" and adventure in Europe.
George and Kitty seem to be members of that generation, seeking something new and
exciting in Italy. Instead, both are bored, trapped inside a hotel because of the rain,
and unable to effectively communicate with one another.
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