Tiger, Tiger

Summary

The web content is a personal reflection on the author's experience with ordering tiger-themed t-shirts during the pandemic, juxtaposing this with the health of their cat, Mr. Cat, and referencing classic poetry about tigers.

Abstract

The article titled "Tiger, Tiger" discusses the author's habit of purchasing tiger-themed t-shirts alongside essential items like vitamins and food during online shopping sprees amidst the pandemic. The author describes their two specific tiger t-shirts in detail and how they pair well with casual wear. This shopping behavior is presented as a small indulgence that brings joy amidst the constraints of the pandemic. The narrative intertwines with the author's concern for their pet cat, Mr. Cat, who is recovering from a respiratory infection. The piece is a response to a writing prompt about "your perfect pairing," suggesting that the tiger shirts and the author's lifestyle, including their cat, are a perfect match. The author also references William Blake's classic poem "The Tyger," drawing a literary connection to the theme of tigers, and invites readers to learn more about Mr. Cat through another essay.

Opinions

The author seems to find comfort and a sense of identity in their tiger t-shirts, considering them almost essential items.
There is a deep affection for the author's pet cat, Mr. Cat, who is a significant part of the author's life and thoughts.
The act of ordering small treats, like tiger t-shirts, during the pandemic is seen as a form of self-care and a way to maintain normalcy.
The author draws a parallel between their own "tiger" shirts and the real-life health concerns of their pet, adding depth to the narrative.
By referencing William Blake's "The Tyger," the author acknowledges the historical and cultural significance of tigers in literature and art.

On wild and domesticated cats

With my online orders for vitamins, heartburn meds, toilet paper,

and canned food, I started to buy t-shirts with roaring tigers —

one gray with a faded orange tiger, one black with a bright white tiger —

either one perfect with jeans or the shorts I wear to walk

in the summer before the heat of the day when Mr. Cat and I retire.

I wrote this poem in response to Trista’s prompt about your perfect pairing.

I actually do have these two tiger t-shirts and enjoy wearing them. During the pandemic, I started using the Target app, and I also started to sometimes order a little treat for myself along with the essentials. Or maybe a tiger shirt is essential?

Mr. Cat’s given name is Midnight, and he’s more of a mini jaguar than a tiger. He’s on my mind right now as he’s recovering from a respiratory infection. The vet said yesterday that he seems to be in good health otherwise. 🐈‍⬛

For a classic poem about a tiger, please see The Tyger by William Blake.

For more about Mr. Cat, I have a little essay about him.

Poetry

Tiger, Tiger

On wild and domesticated cats

The Pleasure of Mr. Cat’s Company

A guest who moved in for good