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.
How is this sad.
This poem by Maya Angelou, titled "Caged Bird," explores the theme of oppression and the longing for freedom. It contrasts the experiences of a free bird, which symbolizes freedom and autonomy, and a caged bird, which symbolizes being trapped and confined.
The poem becomes sad because it highlights the stark contrast between the free bird's ability to soar and experience the beauty and joy of the natural world, while the caged bird remains trapped in a narrow cage, unable to fully experience life's pleasures. The caged bird's wings are clipped and its feet are tied, symbolizing the loss of its ability to move and be free.
Furthermore, the caged bird's song, although beautiful, is filled with fear and longing. It sings of "things unknown but longed for still," representing the desire for freedom and the inability to attain it. The bird's song can be heard in the distance, signifying its yearning for liberation that is unfulfilled.
The imagery and metaphorical language used in the poem evoke a sense of confinement, hopelessness, and the crushing of dreams. These elements contribute to the overall sadness of the poem.