red in tooth and claw

The phrase "red in tooth and claw" is a poetic expression that signifies the brutal and vicious nature of the animal kingdom. It implies the presence of violence, aggression, and survival instincts that are prevalent in the animal world, where animals frequently resort to tearing apart their prey using their teeth and claws, symbolically represented by the color red. This phrase is often used to illustrate the harsh realities of life, emphasizing the fierce and competitive nature of existence.