Question

The poem "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers‟ is replete with symbols. Interpret any 3 symbols used in the poem

Answer 1

• Wedding band: symbol of oppression in an unhappy marriage/ Ringed means encircled or trapped, losing individuality and freedom
• Aunt Jennifer: a typical victim of male oppression in an unhappy marriage, who suffers loss of individuality, dignity and personal freedom silently. She becomes dependent, fearful and frail 
•  Tigers:  symbolize untamed free spirit. Here they are antithesis of their creator‟s personality. They pace and prance freely, proudly, fearless, confident and majestic in their bearing. The use of colours implies that Aunt Jennifer's tigers and their land are more vital and enjoy a sense of freedom far greater than her. Yellow (bright topaz) connotes the sun and fierce energy, while green reminds one of spring and vitality
• Embroidery: symbol of creative expression. The artwork expresses the Aunt‟s suppressed desires and becomes her escape from the oppressive reality of her life

Answer 2

Following are the three symbols used in the poem:

1. Aunt Jennifer’s tigers: They represent the art which is free, eternal and voice for the voiceless. Aunt Jennifer escapes from harsh reality by carving her tigers.
2. Uncle’s wedding band: The wedding band represents the psychological weight of marriage which Aunt Jennifer cannot bear. It shows that her life is controlled by her husband.
3. Terrified hands will lie still ringed with ordeals: It symbolises the oppression of women. The ring remains in her hand even after her death which shows that she is not free from the oppressive even after her death.