Tigers don’t like groups, you know
Company isn’t something they seek
It may seem strange, but it’s not unique
Most animals draw strength from their pack or crew
Being alone is strength that only a few
Understand. For loneliness does not ensue
When aloneness is simply a part of you
Groups of tigers are called Streaks
Or Ambushes. Silly names — and weak
Tigers don’t like groups, you know
This is in response to the Tanka Tuesday prompt to: Select an animal collective noun and write your syllabic poem using the collective noun.
The poetry form that I used is the Symetrelle.
- It begins and ends with a single subject line that is 7 syllables.
- It has two mono-rhymed couplets that lead you into and out of the subject with a 9 syllable count.
- In the middle is a mono-rhymed 4 line quatrain with an 11 syllable count.
Hot Dogs and Marmalade 
Well I did know that but I have to admit I can’t say I have ever seen them in a group, even eating or traveling …so it must be true 💜. I like your poem.
I especially like your qualification of aloness, loneliness and being alone. 💜💜
Very well written poem Sally
*applause!*
excellent, Sally.
~David
What a lovely and informative poem! I like this form and would like to try it. Thanks for the inspiration Sally.
I almost didn’t even complete this prompt. I’m in a very concrete, factual headspace this week — and it shows, doesn’t it?
I did like the form though. I may try it again another time. Thanks for the encouragement!
the eye of them then eh?
Haha — 100%
tee hee made me giggle.
This is absolutely fabulos, Sally! I love the last line!
I really like your poem, Sally. I didn’t know that about tigers. 😊
Lovely symetrelle. I had no idea that they don’t like moving in groups. But, yes, I haven’t seen one in a group. I didn’t give it much thought, though. Love the line, ‘For loneliness does not ensue
When aloneness is simply a part of you.’
Thank you, Smitha! I hadn’t thought about it much either, but when I looked for tigers on the list given for the prompt and saw they weren’t there, I did a little investigating. Fascinating, right?
It’s amazing how much these prompts teach us. I shared your finding with my family yesterday🙂. It’s wonderful that you were curious enough to find out.
I did not know! Thanks for the lesson and the well-penned poem! 💞
Thanks, Dawn. I didn’t know it either until I tried to look up what a group of tigers is called!
This was lovely, Sally. A streak of tigers… that’s fabulous!!
Sally, your poem burns bright in illuminating the tyger.
So you think William Blake would be pleased?
I think Blake would appreciate the shadows and the things the tyger wants to keep to him/herself.
Creatively written.
Great job with a complicated form!
Thank you! It was a good challenge.
You are welcome!