The tigers symbolize strength, independence, and a wildness that Aunt Jennifer lacks in her own life. She is trapped in a loveless marriage, confined by societal expectations and the fear of her husband's disapproval. Her embroidery of the tigers becomes a form of escape, a way for her to express her longing for a different life.
The imagery of the tigers' "ringed eyes" and "fierce gaze" suggests a raw, untamed power that Aunt Jennifer can only admire from a distance. The poem highlights the tension between Aunt Jennifer's delicate, domesticated existence and the fierce energy of the tigers she creates.
Through this contrast, Rich explores themes of oppression, gender roles, and the search for personal freedom within restrictive societal structures. By juxtaposing Aunt Jennifer's stifling circumstances with the imagery of untamed tigers, the poem raises questions about the limitations imposed on women and the potential for self-expression and liberation.