In simple terms, this quote suggests that cats have a mysterious quality about them which allows them to remain just out of reach from human control and understanding. No matter how much effort people put into defining boundaries for their feline companions or setting rules for their behavior, cats seem to always find ways to slip through the cracks.
On a deeper level, the quote speaks to a broader theme of unpredictability in life and nature's resistance against strict human definitions and limitations. It implies that there are aspects of existence that inherently defy our attempts at control and comprehension, much like how cats can never fully be tamed or completely understood by their owners. This idea extends beyond just pets; it reflects on the elusive nature of many things in life, such as emotions, dreams, and even human behavior itself.
Andre Norton was a prolific American science fiction and fantasy author who wrote extensively throughout her long career. Her works often explored themes of exploration, survival against odds, and understanding complex relationships with animals and other beings in fantastical settings. This quote encapsulates one of the key ideas that runs through much of her literature: the notion that life is full of mysteries beyond our grasp.
