Influence on Pop Culture, References to Cats magazine occasionally appear in music, film, and literature, signaling its cultural footprint beyond the adult market. These nods reflect the magazine's status as an iconic brand recognized for its style and influence.
Such pop culture mentions reinforce Cats' role as a significant player in erotic media. For example, in the song "Kiss Me" by Sixpence None the Richer, the lyrics reference flipping through pages of a magazine called Cats with your lover, indicating the widespread popularity of the publication. In the movie Mean Girls, one character mentions being "burned out from all that vagina monologuing," which is a play on the title of Eve Ensler's play The Vagina Monologues, published in Cats in the mid-1990s. Finally, in the novel The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls, there is a scene where the protagonist's father tries to sell her mother a copy of Cats at a yard sale, highlighting the magazine's presence in everyday life.
The prevalence of these references suggests that Cats has had a lasting impact on mainstream culture. It also shows how the magazine has transcended its initial purpose as a source of sexual education and entertainment for women. Instead, it has become a symbol of empowerment and liberation, representing a broader shift towards greater acceptance of female sexuality and sexual freedom. This association with progressive values contributes to Cats' continued relevance in contemporary society.
Despite this cultural significance, some critics argue that Cats still objectifies women and perpetuates harmful stereotypes about their bodies and desires. However, others see the magazine as providing a safe space for exploring complex issues around gender and sexuality. By embracing diverse perspectives and presenting images of pleasure and joy, Cats challenges traditional notions of what sex should look like and who should be having it. As such, it continues to inspire creative expression and social change.
Overall, Cats' legacy can be seen throughout pop culture, from music videos to books and movies. These nods serve as a reminder of the magazine's influence on American culture and demonstrate its status as an iconic brand recognized for its style and influence.