What do aunt Jennifer’s fluttering hands through her wool in the seco...
Aunt Jennifer’s fluttering hands through her wool in the second stanza of the poem "Aunt Jennifer’s Tigers" by Adrienne Rich tell us about the lost freedom and fear of Jennifer’s mind because of marital restraints. The imagery of her hands fluttering through the wool indicates a sense of unease and anxiety.
1. Symbolism of fluttering hands:
The fluttering hands symbolize Aunt Jennifer's suppressed desires and emotions. As she knits and embroiders, her hands are restless and agitated, suggesting her inner turmoil. The use of the word "fluttering" implies a lack of control and a sense of nervousness. This symbolizes how Aunt Jennifer's mind is trapped and constrained by her marriage.
2. Connection to marital restraints:
The poem explores the theme of gender inequality and the limitations imposed on women within a patriarchal society. Aunt Jennifer's hands fluttering through the wool represent her longing for freedom and expression, which are restricted by the expectations and constraints of her marriage. The wool, which she is working with, symbolizes the domestic sphere and traditional gender roles assigned to women.
3. Lost freedom and fear:
The fluttering hands also convey Aunt Jennifer's fear and anxiety. Her hands tremble as she works, indicating her fear of the consequences if she were to defy societal norms and assert her individuality. The poem suggests that Aunt Jennifer's marriage has left her feeling trapped and powerless, leading to a loss of freedom and the constant presence of fear.
4. Contrast with the tigers:
In contrast to Aunt Jennifer's fluttering hands, the tigers she creates in her embroidery are portrayed as powerful and fearless. The tigers represent Aunt Jennifer's idealized vision of herself – strong, independent, and free. The contrast between the tigers and Aunt Jennifer's own reality highlights the stark difference between her inner desires and the limitations placed upon her.
In conclusion, Aunt Jennifer's fluttering hands through her wool in the second stanza of the poem symbolize the lost freedom and fear of her mind due to marital restraints. The imagery of the fluttering hands conveys her suppressed desires and anxiety, highlighting the limitations imposed on women within a patriarchal society.
What do aunt Jennifer’s fluttering hands through her wool in the seco...
Aunt Jenifer’s hands are fluttering through her wool because she is frightened and subdued. Her marriage ring becomes a burden for her because it symbolizes how she is oppressed and controlled by her husband. This is why she is unable to even pull the needle. This suggests that Aunt Jennifer’s husband probably does not treat her well at home and hence she lives in a state of constant fear.