Why does Bly use a hawk to symbolize his father in "Prayer for My Father"?How does that symbolism help Bly convey his message? analyze the usage of...

In order to answer the question you have to consider your
various association with hawks.  What immediately should come to mind is their
independent nature.  They are usually seen in solitary profile on a tree limb or other
outpost.  They are exceptionally keen -- seeing even the smallest prey at a great
distance.  They are expert hunters and fierce once they catch their prey.  They tear it
apart and eat heartily.  They are strong, daring, patient, solitary, etc.  Now consider
how those ideas and adjectives might apply to the father in the poem.  While many of
those qualities are admirable, they may not be the most appropriate for a father son
relationship.  There is a certain amount of ambiguity in this poem.  The son seems to
admire his father, the "old hawk" and see in himself some of the same features as his
father since he references the "young hawk."  Perhaps he appreciates what his father has
instilled in him, but I think there could also be an element that suggests that he
has struggled to have a good relationship due to the hawk's
nature.