The Cat in the Hat is famous for its anarchic, rule-breaking mentality. Of course, all that jazz can be a little more fun on paper than in real life. Breaking the rules—or getting caught breaking the rules, we should say—can lead to all kinds of non-fun. In this party-making story, Seuss was careful to stress the upside of rules and order, too, giving equal voice to the rebel cat and the order-obsessed fish. Who do you identity with?
Questions and Answers
Q: How does the Cat get away with breaking the rules?
A: Well, he cleans up the mess before Mother gets home. But you know what? I'm pretty sure Mother will find a little piece of kite somewhere—nothing gets by a mom.
Q: Why is it fun to make a mess?
A: A lot of times when we know we're not supposed to do something, it makes us want to do it that much more. That's why jumping on the bed is so much fun.
Q: Why does the fish love rules so much?
A: When there's so much fun going down, there needs to be at least one party pooper. And his name is George Banks—ahem, the fish.