Tyger

The Tyger, with its archaic spelling and “fearful symmetry” (4), symbolizes the dark side of creation, which the poem demonstrates is perhaps even more awe-inspiring than its contrary represented by the Lamb. The poem locates the Tyger literally in the dark, “In the forests of the night” (2), and shows its power through the fact that it shines through this darkness. Its eyes, heart, and brain serve to illustrate the mythical power, craftsmanship, and daring of its creator.

Lamb

The Lamb, who only appears in the fifth stanza, symbolizes the lighter, more benevolent side of creation, in sharp contrast to the fearsome Tyger. The only mention of the Lamb in the poem comes at the end, after the speaker has described the “dread grasp” (15) and “deadly terrors” (16) necessary for the creation of the Tyger. He questions whether the Tyger’s creator is pleased with this destructive creation, juxtaposing...