Caged Bird
By Maya Angelou
A free bird leaps
on the back of the wind
and floats downstream
till the current ends
and dips his wing
in the orange sun rays
and dares to claim the sky.
But a bird that stalks
down his narrow cage
can seldom see through
his bars of rage
his wings are clipped and
his feet are tied
so he opens his throat to sing.
The caged bird sings
with a fearful trill
of things unknown
but longed for still
and his tune is heard
on the distant hill
for the caged bird
sings of freedom.
The free bird thinks of another breeze
and the trade winds soft through the sighing tree
and the fat worms waiting on a dawn bright lawn
and he names the sky his own.
But a caged bird stands on the grave of dreams
his shadow shouts on a nightmare scream
his wings are clipped and his feet are tied
so he opens his throat to sing.
The caged bird sings
with a fearful trill
of things unknown
but longed for still
and his tune is heard
on the distant hill
for the caged bird
sings of freedom.
Who is the speaker in the poem? Consider the point of view, tone, first person or third person. Is there any complexity in the poets attitude?
The speaker in the poem is Maya Angelou herself. The poem is written in the first person point of view, as indicated by the repeated use of "I" statements throughout the poem, such as "I know why the caged bird sings." The tone of the poem is empathetic and compassionate towards the caged bird, conveying a sense of understanding and support for its plight.
There is complexity in the poet's attitude as she contrasts the freedom of the free bird with the confinement and limitations imposed upon the caged bird. While the poem clearly portrays the caged bird as oppressed and longing for freedom, there is also a sense of resilience and determination as the bird continues to sing despite its conditions. The poet's attitude reflects a strong empathy for those who are oppressed and a belief in the power of expression and the yearning for freedom.