Childhood Fear of the Poet
The poet's childhood fear was losing her mother.

Explanation
In the poem "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers" by Adrienne Rich, the poet discusses the life of Aunt Jennifer, who is portrayed as a victim of patriarchal oppression. While the poem primarily focuses on Aunt Jennifer's struggles in her married life, it also gives us glimpses into the poet's own childhood experiences and fears.

Significance of Maternal Bond
The poet's fear of losing her mother can be seen as a reflection of the deep emotional bond between a child and their mother. The mother is often seen as a source of comfort, security, and love during childhood, and the loss of a mother can be a traumatic experience for a young child.

Emphasis on Mother's Role
In the poem, the poet describes Aunt Jennifer's life as being constrained and controlled by her marriage. Aunt Jennifer is portrayed as living a life of fear and subjugation, unable to assert herself or find fulfillment. This can be seen as a critique of the traditional gender roles and the limited opportunities available to women in a patriarchal society.

Personal Connection
Through the portrayal of Aunt Jennifer's struggles, the poet draws a parallel to her own childhood fears. The fear of losing her mother may stem from the poet's own experiences of witnessing the limitations and struggles faced by women in society, particularly within the institution of marriage.

Conclusion
The poet's childhood fear of losing her mother is a poignant reflection of the emotional bond between a child and their mother. It also serves to highlight the poet's understanding of the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society. By exploring Aunt Jennifer's story, the poet invites readers to reflect on the role of gender and power dynamics in shaping individual lives.