The Tyger
BY WILLIAM BLAKE
Tyger Tyger, burning bright,
In the forests of the night;
What immortal hand or eye,
Could frame thy fearful symmetry?
In what distant deeps or skies.
Burnt the fire of thine eyes?
On what wings dare he aspire?
What the hand, dare seize the fire?
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?
What the hammer? what the chain,
In what furnace was thy brain?
What the anvil? what dread grasp.
Dare its deadly terrors clasp?
And when thy heart began to beat.
What dread hand? & what dread feet?
What the hammer? what the chain,
In what furnace was thy brain?
What the anvil? what dread grasp,
Dare its deadly terrors clasp?
When the stars threw down their spears
And water’d heaven with their tears:
Did he smile his work to see?
Did he who made the Lamb make thee?
Tyger Tyger burning bright,
In the forests of the night:
What immortal hand or eye,
Dare frame thy fearful symmetry?
Your 750-1250 word essay should follow your plan laid out in the Poetry Prewriting Test according to one of the following topics:
1. In order to support your thesis, you must incorporate research from 1 secondary source from the CGTC’s Library references page’s Literary Reference Center and/or GALILEO, Credo Reference, or Films on Demand (Wikipedia, Shmoop, Cliffs Notes, Lit Charts. Sparknotes, Essays.com. etc. are NOT reputable sources). You may also use any cited Power Point information or research article about the poet or poem provided in the Helpful Poetry Resource folder.
2. Choose one poem from the reading list and write an essay focusing on three themes, symbols, or literary devices present within the text.
3. Choose two poems from the reading list and write a point-by-point comparison essay focusing on three similar themes, symbols, or literary devices in both texts.
• Like any five-paragraph essay, this essay will have an introduction paragraph that ends with a three-part thesis statement establishing the three main literary elements of discussion.
• The three body paragraphs will contain 8-11 sentences, and each will address in the same order the elements presented in the thesis statement. Each body paragraph should contain a topic and concluding sentence as well as transitions to help the reader move from one idea to the next.
• The concluding paragraph will restate the three main elements discussed as well as the name of the poem and poet.
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
Essay on William Blake’s “The Tyger”
Introduction
William Blake’s poem “The Tyger” is a powerful and enigmatic work that explores the nature of creation and the existence of good and evil in the world. Through vivid imagery and thought-provoking questions, Blake delves into the complexities of life and the mysterious forces that shape our reality.
Thesis Statement
In “The Tyger,” William Blake utilizes symbolism, imagery, and rhetorical questions to convey profound themes about the duality of existence, the divine nature of creation, and the presence of evil in the world.
Symbolism
One of the key literary elements in “The Tyger” is symbolism, as Blake uses the tiger to represent both beauty and ferocity. The tiger symbolizes the raw power and energy of nature, as well as the darker aspects of creation. The repeated references to fire and burning evoke a sense of intensity and danger, highlighting the dual nature of the tiger as both majestic and fearsome.
Imagery
Blake’s use of vivid imagery in “The Tyger” enhances the reader’s understanding of the poem’s central themes. The image of the tiger “burning bright” in the night forest creates a sense of awe and wonder, emphasizing the creature’s majesty and mystery. The descriptions of the tiger’s eyes as “fire” and its heart as sinewy and strong paint a vivid picture of a creature both beautiful and terrifying.
Rhetorical Questions
Throughout “The Tyger,” Blake poses a series of rhetorical questions that challenge the reader to ponder the mysteries of existence. Questions such as “What immortal hand or eye, / Could frame thy fearful symmetry?” invite reflection on the divine origins of creation and the complexity of the natural world. By questioning the origins and purpose of the tiger, Blake prompts readers to contemplate deeper philosophical truths about life, morality, and the nature of God.
Conclusion
In conclusion, William Blake’s poem “The Tyger” is a profound exploration of the dualities that exist within the natural world and within humanity itself. Through powerful symbolism, vivid imagery, and thought-provoking rhetorical questions, Blake conveys complex themes about creation, morality, and the presence of evil in the world. By delving into the symbolic meaning of the tiger, interpreting Blake’s rich imagery, and contemplating his challenging questions, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of life and the mysteries that surround us.
In analyzing “The Tyger,” it becomes evident that Blake’s poetic genius lies in his ability to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and inspire contemplation on profound existential questions. The poem serves as a timeless exploration of the human condition, offering insights into the beauty and terror that coexist in our world. Through its rich symbolism, vivid imagery, and philosophical inquiries, “The Tyger” continues to captivate readers with its enduring relevance and depth.
