A self-indulgent man finds himself trapped in a domestic power struggle between his current wife, his former spouse, and a beloved cat. The protagonist, Shozo, attempts to navigate the conflicting demands of the women in his life, each of whom uses the presence of the cat to exert influence or manipulate his affections. As the narrative unfolds, the domestic sphere becomes a battleground where traditional gender roles and personal desires collide. The story utilizes a sharp, observational tone to dissect the psychological maneuvers of its characters within a confined, middle-class setting.

This collection is widely regarded as a quintessential example of Tanizaki's ability to blend dark humor with acute psychological insight. Readers often note the author's skill in elevating a seemingly trivial domestic dispute into a profound commentary on human ego and dependency. The interplay between the characters is frequently analyzed for its subtle subversion of traditional Japanese social expectations. The work remains a significant entry in the author's bibliography for its accessible yet biting critique of interpersonal relationships.