The Poem and Theme - SS1 Literature Lesson Note

The poem "Caged Bird" by Maya Angelou

A free bird leaps
on the back of the wind
and floats downstream
like a leaf on a river
That bird is content
in the knowledge of its freedom
He sings with joy
as he soars through the sky

But a caged bird
stands on the grave of his own dead dreams
His wings are clipped
and his feet are tied so he opens his throat to sing

He sings of things unknown
but longed for not to be known
He sings a fearful song
Yet that bird's song is sweet
Even though he sings of things
he cannot have

The caged bird sings with a fearful trill
of the unknown but longed for freedom
And the free bird thinks of nothing but himself

Effective Uses of Imagery and Symbols

Angelou uses imagery and symbols throughout the poem to create a powerful and moving experience for the reader.

The image of the free bird soaring through the sky is a symbol of freedom and possibility. The image of the caged bird standing on the grave of its own dreams is a symbol of oppression and confinement.

The contrast between these two images is striking and powerful. It reminds us of the importance of freedom and the devastating effects of oppression.

Themes

The poem "Caged Bird" explores a number of important themes, including freedom, oppression, resilience, and hope.

The poem suggests that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit yearns for freedom. It also suggests that the oppressed will eventually find a way to break free from their chains.

The poem is a reminder that we should never take our freedom for granted. We should also always stand up for the rights of those who are oppressed.