Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow:Aunt Jen...
Aunt Jennifer, on the other hand, is weak and terrified. Her hands are finding it difficult to pull through her wool. The massive weight of the wedding band sits heavily on her hand. Her terrified hands are still ringed by the ordeals of married life.
Read the given extracts and answer the questions that follow:Aunt Jen...
Explanation:
Introduction:
In the given extract from the poem "Aunt Jennifer's Tigers" by Adrienne Rich, the poet describes Aunt Jennifer's hand and her wedding band. The description of the wedding band sitting heavily on Aunt Jennifer's hand suggests that there is some underlying burden or weight associated with her marriage.
Explanation:
The correct answer to the given question is option 'C' - Aunt Jennifer feels burdened in her marriage. This is evident from the way the poet describes the wedding band sitting heavily on her hand. Let's explore the reasons behind this burden:
- Lack of agency: Aunt Jennifer is depicted as a passive figure in her marriage. The phrase "Aunt Jennifer's finger fluttering through her wool" suggests that she finds solace in her artistic pursuits rather than in her marital life. This implies that she may not have much say or control in her marriage, and therefore, feels burdened by it.
- Oppressive expectations: The use of the word "massive" to describe the weight of Uncle's wedding band implies that Aunt Jennifer feels overwhelmed by the societal expectations and responsibilities that come with being married. The wedding band symbolizes the traditional roles and duties imposed on her as a wife, which she finds difficult to bear.
- Emotional dissatisfaction: The poem does not explicitly mention the lack of love in Aunt Jennifer's marriage, but the heavy weight of the wedding band can be interpreted as a metaphor for the emotional burden she carries. It suggests that her relationship may be lacking in emotional support, love, and happiness, which adds to her sense of heaviness and burden.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the wedding band sitting heavily on Aunt Jennifer's hand symbolizes the burden and weight she feels in her marriage. This burden can be attributed to the lack of agency, oppressive expectations, and potentially emotional dissatisfaction in her relationship. The poet's choice of words and imagery effectively convey Aunt Jennifer's struggle and highlight the complexities of her marital situation.