Poetic Inspiration from Stephen Spender

a) Who is the poet behind the verses?

b) What message do the vivid stripes convey about the tiger?

c) How does the word 'quiet' hold different meanings in two different verses of the poem?

Final answer:

Stephen Spender is the poet behind the verses. The vivid stripes on the tiger's body indicate its beauty and power. The word 'quiet' has different meanings in verse 3 ('velvet quiet') and verse 4 ('quiet rage').

a) The poet who penned this poem is Stephen Spender. He crafted beautiful verses that evoke imagery and emotions.

b) The vivid stripes on the tiger's body can be seen as a representation of its beauty and power. They indicate that the tiger is a majestic and formidable creature, awe-inspiring in its presence.

c) The word 'quiet' in verse 3 ('velvet quiet') refers to the peaceful and calm demeanor of the tiger as it moves across the few steps of its cage. In contrast, the word 'quiet' in verse 4 ('quiet rage') suggests that while the tiger may appear calm on the outside, there is a seething anger and frustration underneath, hidden from plain sight but brewing within.

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