Meaning of They Call Her The Cat by Elton John

In Elton John's song, "They Call Her The Cat," we are introduced to a character who defies societal norms and expectations. The overall theme of the song explores notions of identity, transformation, and the power of embracing one's true essence, regardless of how it may challenge conventions.The opening verse sets the stage for the story, as we meet a woman who exudes wildness and embodies the freedom Elton John sings about. With her mane-like hair, she captivates those around her and leaves a lasting impression. This lyric speaks to the idea of breaking free from societal constraints and embracing one's unique qualities.The chorus, "Now they call her the cat, and that's a stone fact," takes a playful approach in referring to the woman as a cat. This line can be interpreted metaphorically, representing a sense of independence, grace, and agility. It suggests that she possesses alluring qualities that both intrigue and intimidate others. In this context, the "cat" becomes a symbol of mystery and power, adding depth to the song's meaning.One standout lyric comes in the second verse: "She just does that double act, she got Babs and Joan down pat." This line introduces the idea of transformation and the concept of adopting different identities. The mention of Babs and Joan alludes to influential figures like Barbra Streisand and Joan Rivers, who were known for their ability to command attention and transform themselves on stage.This lyric highlights the theme of theatricality and the power of reinvention. By referencing these iconic women, the song suggests that the protagonist is capable of adopting various personas, each executed with precision and confidence. It speaks to the idea of embracing one's multifaceted nature and the freedom to explore different facets of oneself.Moving to the third verse: "She's so fine that the water line, don't separate hot and cold." This line presents a clever play on words, insinuating that the woman is so captivating that she blurs the boundaries between opposites. This can be seen as both a physical attraction and a metaphor for the fluidity and complexity of her personality.By challenging the separation between hot and cold, the lyric delves into the theme of breaking down binaries. It suggests that this woman embodies contradictions and embraces the beauty of balance and complexity. Rather than being confined to societal expectations of what is hot or cold, she exists in a realm outside those limitations.The final verse further highlights the theme of transformation and the pursuit of dreams: "Got stitched up bitchy by an old M.D, now she's headed out to Hollywood or so I'm told." The mention of being "stitched up bitchy" implies that the woman underwent surgery to align her appearance with her true identity. This speaks to the courage and determination to pursue self-expression, even if it means going against societal norms.The mention of Hollywood symbolizes a place where dreams come alive, where one can seek validation and acceptance for their true self. It conveys a sense of embarking on a journey to find personal fulfillment and success, regardless of the challenges that lie ahead.As a whole, "They Call Her The Cat" explores themes of self-discovery, transformation, and embracing one's true essence. It celebrates non-conformity and the power of breaking free from societal expectations. Through clever and imaginative lyrics, Elton John tells a story of a woman who defies categorization and finds empowerment in her uniqueness. It serves as a reminder for all of us to embrace our authentic selves and live our lives on our own terms, just like the enigmatic and captivating "cat" in the song.