There are two central images: Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers and the Uncle’s wedding band that stand in opposition.
Write an analysis of each image:
How is each image conveyed? How are the tigers described? How do they reflect Rich’s views/ values, message? What language features are used to describe the tigers?
Poetic devices and language features
symbolism; sibilance; personification; third person perspectives; alliteration;
3 verses; rhyming structure
A layered poetic narrative
Notice how Jennifer is weaving a tapestry which tells the story of the tigers that prance in her imagination. Their freedom and chivalry exist in her imagination as a counterpoint to her oppressive lifestyle and the “ordeals” of marriage.
In your own piece, think about how you can add extra narrative layers/perspectives/alternative voices (the character reading a letter, writing a poem or a diary excerpt, reading a paragraph from a favourite book/novel/poem;
For critical analysis, See LitCharts: https://www.litcharts.com/poetry/adrienne-rich/aunt-jennifer-s-tigers
Return to 2023 Summer Break Program
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