In her essay "Dogs, Cats, and Dancers: Thoughts about Beauty," Ursula K. Le Guin explores the different perspectives on self-awareness and appearance between dogs and cats. She also delves into the concept of beauty, particularly in relation to aging and the changing body. Le Guin reflects on the ideal of beauty and the various ways it is constructed, ultimately arguing that true beauty goes beyond physical appearance and is found in the depth of a person's spirit.