Discuss how Maya Angelou presents the theme of freedom, or lack thereof, in her poem 'The Caged Bird'

Withing the first stanza, Angelou uses a range of dynamic verbs in reference to the free bird: 'leaps', 'dips', 'floats'. In doing do, Angelou characterises freedom as a liberty and lightness of movement. These dynamic verbs give voice to a simple privilege of freedom: being able to move without burden. This ability and lightness of movement is even more evident in light of the second stanza's introduction of the caged bird: 'But a bird that stalks/down his narrow cage'. Not only do we see the lack of freedom characterised by the lack of space (narrow cage), we also see that the lack of freedom also results in the bird moving contrary to its nature; 'down' instead of upwards. Thus, Angelou may be suggesting that in order for a creature, or a human being, to truly be itself, freedom is a necessity.
The stanzas alternating between the caged bird and the free bird, as well as the alternating rhymes present in some stanzas create a dizzying effect, which draws attention to the delicate nature of freedom. Just as easily as it can be acquired, it can so easily be taken away. Perhaps Angelou, in alerting the reader to the fragility of freedom, is advocating that we safeguard our freedom, and that of others.

NL
Answered by Nema L. English tutor

8248 Views

See similar English A Level tutors

Related English A Level answers

All answers ▸

How do you write an English Literature A level essay?


What is the best way to make use of the time given in an exam?


How do the poets Thomas Hardy and T. S. Eliot make use of settings and places to signify their central concerns?


Compare how the authors of two texts you have studied present ideas about romantic commitment.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning