Student Question

Why is "The Tyger" by William Blake considered a lyric poem?

Quick answer:

"The Tyger" by William Blake is considered a lyric poem because it is songlike and expresses emotion. Its rhyme scheme and metrical pattern make it lyrical, allowing it to be easily set to music. Despite the fearsome image of the tiger, the poem's words flow beautifully, enhancing its lyrical quality.

Expert Answers

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A lyric poem is songlike and expresses emotion. In ancient Greece, poems were often accompanied by music played on a lyre. The rhyme scheme and the metrical pattern of the poem make it lyrical; it could easily be set to music. Despite the fearsome image of the tiger, the words flow beautifully.

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