A Synopsis of Lasting Themes Found in “The Child by Tiger”

The character Dick Prosser is upon introduction a deeply religious, gentle, and multi-talented man. Almost immediately in the story, Wolfe begins a consistent reference to Dick as very cat-like in nature, drawing on his cunning prowess, speed, and agility. It can thus be gathered that the tiger illustrated

in Blake’s poem is symbolic of Dick. The narrator paints an illustrious image of Dick Prosser in the early stages of the story, creating an instant admiration for what the reader first believes to be the protagonist; however, it is soon noted that Dick “went too softly, at too swift a pace”, marring the seemingly flawless character and casting a shadow of doubt over the almost-hero. Comparing Dick to a shadow or something “moving in the night,” both disturbs the reader and causes one to question first impressions. Night, darkness, and shadows emerge as crucial themes, once again drawing their power from the introductory stanza from “Tiger.” All information held from the reader is purposefully concealed or blurred by darkness, suggesting a shadow over human nature. Thus develops the author’s lasting theme.

Symbols from the excerpt taken out of Exodus are again very cryptic. Did Wolfe purposely include this excerpt to chart Dick’s transformation, or was it rather a satire on the hypocrisy possessed by man? Following the passage of the Bible very closely, Dick emerges from the dark forest much like the dark tiger in Blake’s poem, and makes his way across the pasture farmland and stops before the river to face death. It is my own belief that

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