Question

Read the poem without thinking about the title of the poem.
Could this poem describe someone other than the eagle?​

Answer 1

Answer:

The Eagle book cover

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Do you think that the poem, "The Eagle," is only about a bird?

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WALLACE FIELD eNotes educator | CERTIFIED EDUCATOR

No, the poem isn't just about a bird; we can also interpret it as a comment on absolute power and the effects of such power on humans. Personifying the eagle as having "crooked hands," gives us a clue that the eagle might be symbolic of a person, since people have hands. Further, there are two definitions for crooked: bent (like an eagle's talons would be) and corrupt (as someone who holds absolute power likely is). Perhaps this supreme ruler holds onto his power through corruption.