Quote by Mark Twain, Notebook (1884 entry
Of all God's creatures there is only one that cannot be made the slave of the lash. That one is the cat. If man could be crossed with a cat it would improve man, but it would deteriorate the cat.
Summary
This quote by Mark Twain highlights the unique independence and nature of cats. It suggests that cats possess a level of autonomy and defiance that is unmatched by any other creature. Twain presents the idea that if humans were to be infused with the spirit of a cat, it would have a positive impact on humans, but it would diminish the essence of what makes a cat a cat. This quote reflects on the distinct qualities of feline behavior and hints at the notion that humans could learn from the self-possession and individuality exhibited by cats.