The poem Tyger Tyger
What is it about?
thanks
tabby
xx
I have often wondered the same thing.
Here is an interpretation:
http://www.pathguy.com/tyger.htm
"Tyger Tyger" is a famous poem written by William Blake. It explores the themes of creation, artistry, and the existence of evil. The poem uses vivid imagery and powerful language to portray the awe-inspiring yet terrifying nature of the titular tiger.
To fully understand the poem, it is best to read and analyze the text. Here is a breakdown of the poem and the elements that contribute to its meaning:
1. Stanza 1:
Tyger Tyger, burning bright,
In the forests of the night;
What immortal hand or eye,
Could frame thy fearful symmetry?
The first stanza sets up the central question of the poem: how could such a beautiful and powerful creature like the tiger exist? Blake marvels at the tiger's "fearful symmetry," referring to its balance of beauty and danger.
2. Stanza 2:
In what distant deeps or skies
Burnt the fire of thine eyes?
On what wings dare he aspire?
What the hand, dare sieze the fire?
In the second stanza, Blake wonders where the tiger came from and how it was created. He speculates about the origins of the tiger's fiery eyes and the daring power it possesses.
3. Stanza 3:
And what shoulder, & what art,
Could twist the sinews of thy heart?
And when thy heart began to beat,
What dread hand? & what dread feet?
Here, Blake ponders the physical and spiritual aspects of the tiger. He questions the strength of its being, wondering how it was crafted and animated.
4. Stanza 4:
What the hammer? what the chain,
In what furnace was thy brain?
What the anvil? what dread grasp,
Dare its deadly terrors clasp!
In this stanza, Blake references the creation process of the tiger again, using blacksmith metaphors such as a hammer, chain, and furnace. He emphasizes the terror and danger associated with the tiger's existence.
5. Stanza 5:
When the stars threw down their spears
And watered heaven with their tears:
Did he smile his work to see?
Did he who made the Lamb make thee?
The final stanza contrasts the tiger with the "Lamb," another creation of God. Blake questions whether the same divine creator produced both creatures, as they seem to possess opposing characteristics.
Overall, "Tyger Tyger" is a contemplation of the duality of nature and the presence of both beauty and evil in the world. The poem raises questions about the divine creator's intentions and the complexity of existence.
I hope this explanation helps you understand the poem better! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.