The much-loved, furry tourist magnets that live at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West are famous for being polydactyls–they have six-toed front paws that make them look as if they’re wearing mittens. Like Fats Waller in the picture at left. Today’s New York Times has an article, “For Whom the Cell Mutates: The Origins of Genetic Quirks,” that delves into the science behind what makes a cat polydactyl, along with some insights about Hemingway and his writing. Although they care more about enticing literary travelers to pet them and napping in the garden, Fats Waller and his fellow residents have made it into science lore. “When found in felines,” the Times reports, “the condition, formally known as preaxial polydactyly, is now commonly referred to as a ‘Hemingway cat.'”
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March 15, 2011 at 5:19 pm
sgiansante
I remember going to the Hemingway Home when I was a child. It was my first experience around cats (we had dogs) I just realized I don’t have any memories of cats before then. Now, I have three cats and volunteer at a cat rescue. Go figure!
March 15, 2011 at 5:51 pm
noveldestinations
It seems as if the cats made quite an impression on you during your childhood visit to the Hemingway Home! Some writers loved cats, like Hemingway and Mark Twain. Edith Wharton, on the other hand, called them “sneaks in fur.” The cats at the Hemingway Home really add to the ambience. Because of them, it’s a much more lively place than most other author houses.
March 16, 2011 at 12:30 pm
iwriteinbooks
I’ve always been a dog person over those silly cat people (preferring Steinbeck’s Travels with Charley, obviously!) but I love Hemingway and for that, I like cats…just a little bit. ;O)
March 18, 2011 at 10:17 pm
noveldestinations
Travels with Charley is one of my favorite books, largely because of Charley. His presence in the book really changes the dynamic. If you live near Salinas, California, or vist the area, stop by the National Steinbeck Center. It’s one of the most interesting author-related places I’ve visited. On display there is Rocinante, the camper Steinbeck and his first mate traveled in, along with pictures of Charley. Happy travels. -Shannon
March 24, 2011 at 7:47 pm
Peter
Thanks! I went to the house in Dec and just absolutely loved it. My guide was originally from Boston, but had lived in Key West for a while. Having worked in tourism for a while, I can say this place knows what they are doing.