Poem Title: "Caged Bird" (full title: "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings")
Publication Year: 1983
Collection: "Shaker Why Don't You Sing"
Structure: Free rhyme and free verse, divided into six parts (stanzas).
Themes
Freedom vs. Captivity: Central theme of the poem.
Symbolism:
Free Bird: Represents white people in America, symbolizing freedom.
Caged Bird: Represents black people (African Americans), symbolizing oppression and captivity.
Context
Societal Discrimination: Reflects the discrimination based on color in America during Angelou's lifetime.
Emotional Expression: The anger and frustration of the caged bird due to its confinement.
Analysis of the Poem
Stanza Breakdown
Free Bird:
Leaps on the wind and floats freely.
Enjoys the sun and claims the sky.
Caged Bird:
Hides in anger within the cage.
Limited vision due to rage and the cage.
Wings clipped and feet tied to prevent escape.
Opens throat to sing about its suffering and loss of freedom.
Key Lines
Caged Bird's Song:
Sings with a fearful trill about unknown things, symbolizing dreams of freedom.
Longing for freedom despite the fear of the unknown.
Free Bird's Thoughts:
Considers the next breeze and enjoys ease of life, representing hope and possibility.
Symbolism of the Cage
The cage symbolizes the oppression faced by African Americans.
The bird's song represents the struggle for freedom and equality.
Conclusion
Overall Message: The caged bird's desire for freedom mirrors the African American desire for equality and liberation from discrimination.
Maya Angelou's aim in the poem is to highlight the longing for freedom and the impact of societal oppression.
Poet's Background: Maya Angelou (April 4, 1928 - May 28, 2014) was a poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist, known for her contributions to literature and civil rights.