Question

Create a comprehensive comparison of the themes present in ‘Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers’ and ‘My Mother at Sixty-six’. Specifically discuss the different ways each poem addresses the concept of struggle and resilience.

Hint:

Compare the use of symbols and emotions in poems to highlight their treatment of universal themes like struggle and resilience.

Answer 1

Suggested value points- Aunt Jennifer’s tigers
- suppressed by patriarchal society
- endures the ordeals of her marriage
- desirous of strength and freedom
- resilience able to express herself beautifully through her art - creation of tigers
- tigers symbolic of freedom and chivalry / fearlessness and pride
My Mother at Sixty Six :
- reflects true struggle of fulfilling worldly duties and duties as a daughter - leaves her mother with reassurance
- hides her emotions through her smile
- makes a promise to see her soon
- mother’s ageing and appearance reflects her struggle and resilience