In "The Last Unicorn" by Peter S. Beagle, the narrator reflects on a personal anecdote involving his father, who harbors a strong dislike for cats. The father holds an unconventional belief that cats are not genuine creatures but rather deceptive forms adopted by mischievous spirits and entities. This perspective reveals a sense of skepticism toward cats, portraying them as crafty beings seeking to infiltrate human spaces.

This viewpoint illustrates a larger theme of distrust towards the unknown and the magical, emphasizing how different characters interpret reality and the mystical world around them. The father's opinion encapsulates a blend of folklore and superstition, shedding light on how such views can shape familial dynamics and perceptions of nature.