Caged Bird Maya Angelou Analysis

Document Type:Essay

Subject Area:English

Document 1

The poem demonstrates the differences in behavior between the free bird and the caged bird through the use of different literary devices such as rhyme, symbolism, meter, and repetition among other devices. The poem can be interpreted that Angelou demonstrates the distinct differences in socioeconomic classes in the society. This paper aims at providing a thematic analysis of the “caged bird” poem and the literary devices used to support the message or themes in the poem. In the poem, there are two main themes that are evident that are highly supported by different literary devices. Freedom and is the main theme depicted in the poem. Different literary devices are used to convey the message in the poem and support the freedom and survival for the fittest themes.

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Symbolism is the main literary device used to convey the poem’s message. The bird that is free is basically used as a symbolism of freedom which is supported through the use of words like “leaps”, “floats” and “dips” (Stanza 1, lines 1, 3 & 5). The caged bird, on the other hand, is a symbolism of isolation which is supported through the use of words like “bars of rage”, “grave”, “shadow” and “fearful. ” Connotation is also used since the birds actually represent people. When about the free bird, the poet uses an optimistic, joyful and happy tone and attitude which supports the theme of freedom in the poem. The free bird can happily fly around and is in control of everything including the wind and the sky.

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