4. ‘The Tyger’ — William Blake
Summary:
The speaker marvels at the tiger’s fierce beauty and asks how the same Creator responsible for innocence (the lamb) could create such terror. The poem explores the duality of creation — the balance between awe-inspiring beauty and destructive power in nature and in God.
Analysis:
- The tiger symbolizes sublime beauty mixed with terror — forces humans can admire but not fully understand.
- Blake questions divine intent: is the creator benevolent, malevolent, or indifferent?
- Repetition of unanswered questions reflects human limitations in understanding divine power.
- The tiger’s physical attributes (“burning bright,” “fearful symmetry”) emphasize its danger and perfection.
Key Techniques:
- Rhythmic, pounding meter mimics the heartbeat or hammering.
- Powerful visual imagery: fire, brightness, symmetry.
- Anaphora (“What…?” “What…?”) creates urgency and wonder.
- Symbolism: fire as creativity, destruction, and divine energy.