The association between a specific autumnal holiday and felines of a particular melanistic coloration is a long-standing cultural phenomenon. This connection has evolved over centuries, intertwining folklore, superstition, and societal beliefs. For example, in some cultures, these animals are considered harbingers of misfortune during the period surrounding late October celebrations.
The persistence of this pairing stems from a complex interplay of historical events and symbolic interpretations. The animals in question were sometimes seen as familiars of witches during the witch hunts of early modern Europe, cementing their negative image. Conversely, in some cultures, they are considered lucky. The holiday itself is rooted in traditions relating to the end of the harvest season and the boundary between the living and the dead, providing a fertile ground for such beliefs to take root.
