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The long period of isolation, but especially the tiny spaces on the ship where they had to live, transformed our explorers. They became increasingly irritated by the presence of others. They longed for solitude: "If we could get away from each other for a few hours at a time, we might learn to see a new side and be interested in our comrades again, but it is not possible. The truth is that, at this moment, we are as fed up with each other's company as with the cold monotony of the dark night", wrote Dr. Cook.
Nansen, the cat, perhaps the most beloved and pampered member of the expedition, was also a victim of the polar night! Doing his job as a cat very well, Nansen walked among the sailors' legs, purred close to them or begged for food at dinner time. But, above all, he amused them and soothed their homesickness, their need for tenderness! Plus, he actively hunted "the only creatures untouched by the oppression of darkness, which were rats, and one could say that the lack of indiscreet rays of the sun was good for their amorous passions since all winter they constantly held noisy engagements and weddings and always resounded the indignant screams of Mrs Rat cornered by a hasty gallant!"
The black and white cat also became a prey to polar melancholy. Dr. Cook notes: "Overall, Nansen seemed utterly disgusted with the surroundings and his companions and sought refuge in unfrequented corners! His temperament changed, his good and lively being becoming one of aggressive discontent!" The cat's death affected everyone, all the more so as it had been the only shred of sentimental life around, now also kidnapped by the polar night!