The poet, Adrienne Rich, conveys the theme of female existence and their fear of men through the poem "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers". The poem depicts the contrast between Aunt Jennifer's meek and oppressed life as a married woman and the powerful, fearless existence of the tigers she creates through her needlework.

1. Introduction:
The poem begins by describing Aunt Jennifer's needlework, specifically her creation of tigers that "prance across a screen". These tigers symbolize strength, courage, and freedom - qualities that Aunt Jennifer herself lacks.

2. Female Existence:
The poem highlights the restricted and oppressed existence of Aunt Jennifer as a married woman. She is depicted as "terrified" and burdened with the weight of her responsibilities. Her life is controlled by the "massive weight" of her wedding band, which symbolizes the patriarchal society that confines her.

3. Fear of Men:
The poem emphasizes Aunt Jennifer's fear of men and the oppressive nature of her marriage. The image of "fingers fluttering through her wool" suggests her anxiety and unease. This fear is further emphasized by the repetition of the phrase "ringed with ordeals" which signifies the constant presence of her marital burdens.

4. The Tigers:
Aunt Jennifer's creation of the tigers provides her with an outlet to express her suppressed desires for freedom and strength. The tigers are portrayed as fearless, "proud and unafraid". They are described as "chivalric" and "masterful", representing the qualities that Aunt Jennifer longs for but cannot embody in her own life.

5. Symbolism:
The tigers in the poem symbolize the idealized existence that Aunt Jennifer desires. They represent her yearning for liberation, strength, and autonomy. Through her needlework, she can momentarily escape from the constraints of her married life and create a world where she can be courageous and unafraid.

6. Conclusion:
In conclusion, "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers" explores the theme of female existence and their fear of men. Aunt Jennifer's creation of the tigers serves as a metaphor for her own suppressed desires and the oppressive nature of her marriage. The poem highlights the stark contrast between Aunt Jennifer's meekness and the powerful, fearless existence of the tigers she creates.