Tiger

ABBA's song 'Tiger' paints a vivid picture of the city as a dangerous and predatory environment. The lyrics describe the city as a jungle, a nightmare, and a prison, emphasizing the constant threat that lurks around every corner. The metaphor of the tiger represents this ever-present danger, a predator that is always watching and waiting to pounce. The repeated warnings to 'never walk alone after midnight' and to 'beware' highlight the sense of fear and caution that permeates the urban landscape.

The tiger in the song is not just a literal animal but a symbol of the predatory nature of the city itself. The lyrics 'I am behind you, I always find you, I am the tiger' suggest an inescapable presence, a force that is always lurking in the shadows. This can be interpreted as the various dangers and challenges that one faces in a big city, from crime to the psychological stress of urban living. The glowing yellow eyes, likened to neon lights, further emphasize the omnipresence of this threat, blending the natural imagery of a tiger with the artificial lights of the city.

ABBA's use of vivid imagery and metaphor in 'Tiger' creates a haunting portrayal of urban life. The song captures the duality of the city as a place of opportunity and excitement, but also one of danger and fear. The tiger, as a symbol, serves to remind listeners of the constant vigilance required to navigate the urban jungle. This theme resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexities and challenges of city living, making 'Tiger' a powerful and evocative piece of music.