Desiderata for Cat Lovers: A Guide to Life & Happiness

by Max Ehrmann

What could be more placid amid noise and haste than a cat staring quietly out into a dramatic skyscape, her soft fur reflecting the light? Or more peaceful than sleeping kittens cuddled up together in a pile? Does anything illustrate the idea of “being on good terms with all persons” more than a sweet, small feline sitting atop a large, calm dog? From photos of a meowing kitty (“speak your truth quietly and clearly”) to another happily licking her paw (“beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself”), this Desiderata will charm every cat lover and provide spiritual sustenance, too.

Genres: Poetry, Animals, Nonfiction, Philosophy

72 pages, Hardcover

First published February 1, 2007

About the author

Max Ehrmann (September 26, 1872 - September 9, 1945), an attorney from Indiana, was best known for writing the prose poem "Desiderata" (Latin: "things desired as essential") in 1927.

Ehrmann, who was of German descent, received a degree in English from DePauw University, followed by a degree in Philosophy from Harvard University. He then returned to his hometown of Terre Haute, Indiana to practice law. Eventually this led him to work in his family's meatpacking business and in the overalls manufacturing industry. Finally at the age of 41, Ehrmann decided to forget such work and become a writer. At the age of 55 he wrote Desiderata, which achieved fame only after his death

Reviews

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.”

“You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars”

“Speak your truth quietly and clearly”

“Desiderata” was a poem first published in 1927. This version has beautiful pictures of cats to make it even better

[Lily Browning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meows motivationally

[Kayoko · Rating 5 out of 5]

The combination of 2 things I love so much; cats & Desiderata, the poem! Just perfect!

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

My favorite poem and my favorite pet- what’s not to love?

[Karen Worthington · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this wise, inspirational poem.
Lines of the poem are emphasized throughout this mini book with accompanying stunning cat photos.

[Keyanna Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

With a picture of an adorable kitten on every page, Desiderata for Cat Lovers is a brilliantly written poetry-prose book. The book contains a poem/prose piece that is based on the path to a happy and effective life. "If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter;" and "Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth." are two lines from this piece that truly represent the wisdom and cleverness this book posses. I enjoyed this book for many reasons although, a trait that struck me the most was the authors word choice. Ehrmann uses convincing word choice to make the poetry even more passionate. Along with word choice, description and imagery enhanced its excellence. The only thing I did not like about this book, was the amount of adorable kitten pictures. I would advocate for many more eye catching and heartwarming pictures! This book is great for anyone who appreciates great though and intelligence. I would recommend it to everyone!

[Cyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

simple, gratifying, and <3 cats.

words to live by. i recommend the desiderata in any form.

[Cathy Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. The pictures are great and the poem is something to aspire to follow.