Pussy Cat, Pussy Cat

A Royal Surprise

In Newell’s illustration, there appears to be chaos and upheaval. The cat is running under the throne; the queen is obviously startled. Note the expression on her face. She is leaning precariously, and her pillow is lying on the steps. Perhaps this illustration is a metaphor for descent within the queen’s court? Perhaps she does not have control of her surroundings? Perhaps the queen had turned a blind eye to the squabbling and disillusionment of those around her? The text that accompanies the illustration reads,

“The Queen turned very pale

And she gave a shriek.”

Could this passage mean that the queen was not aware of the negativity around her? The cat that is causing the chaos represents her court. From the position of the queen in the illustration, it looks like she is powerless to do something to rectify the situation. She can only stand back helplessly.