"A cat, I am told, has nine lives. If that is true, I know how a cat feels"

This quote by Caryl Chessman is a reflection on the idea of having numerous lives. The metaphor of a cat having 9 lives is utilized to show the idea of having several possibilities to live life. Chessman is suggesting that he can associate with the idea of having numerous lives, as if he were a cat. He is implying that he has actually been offered numerous chances to live his life, in spite of the difficult circumstances he has faced. This quote is a suggestion that no matter how difficult life can be, there is always a possibility to start over and maximize the chances that come our way. It is a tip to take advantage of the lives we have been given, and to never ever give up hope.