Online Test on 10th English TL Poem 2 – “The Tiger and the Deer”
Meaning of the Poem in Simple Words:
The poem describes the contrasting qualities of two animals in nature—the fierce and powerful tiger and the gentle, innocent deer. The tiger, a symbol of strength and cruelty, silently hunts and kills the deer, which is unaware of the danger. The deer, representing beauty and innocence, dies, leaving its mate alone in the forest. However, the poem suggests that one day, the tiger may no longer exist, just like the extinct mammoth, and the deer will be able to live peacefully. The poem reflects on the cycle of life, where the strong dominate for a time, but ultimately, even the mighty must perish.
Central Idea of the Poem:
The poem highlights the contrast between power and innocence, cruelty and gentleness in nature. It also conveys a deeper message that strength and dominance are temporary, while beauty and life continue to exist beyond destruction. The poet suggests that the cycle of nature will eventually favor the gentle over the mighty.
Important Points:
- Contrast in Nature: The tiger represents power and cruelty, while the deer symbolizes beauty and innocence.
- Hunting Scene: The tiger silently stalks and kills the unsuspecting deer near a water pool.
- Cycle of Life: The deer’s death shows nature’s harsh reality, where the strong prey on the weak.
- Extinction of the Mighty: The poet hints that one day, like the mammoth, the tiger will also disappear.
- Survival of Beauty: Even after the tiger perishes, the deer (symbolizing innocence and gentleness) will continue to exist.
- Moral Reflection: Strength and dominance are temporary, but life and beauty endure beyond destruction.