Caged Bird

Fiction | Poem | Adult | Published in 1983

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Poem Analysis

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Related Poems

“Sympathy” by Paul Laurence Dunbar (1899)

Dunbar wrote the poem “Sympathy” while working at the Library of Congress. The context of Dunbar’s life and the metaphor of the caged bird signify a poem about the struggles of Black Americans. Angelou pays homage to Dunbar’s imagery in “Caged Bird” and in her most popular book, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.

“Phenomenal Woman” by Maya Angelou (1978)

Often considered one of Angelou’s best and most enduring poems, this poem transcends stereotypical body image and beauty ideals and empowers women with the message that self-acceptance and inner confidence are the keys to true beauty. Written in Angelou’s typical rhythmic style, the poem is most famous for its refrain “I’m a woman / Phenomenally. / Phenomenal woman, / That’s me.”

“Still I Rise” by Maya Angelou (1978)

Perhaps Angelou’s most powerful poem, this unapologetic anthem celebrates Angelou’s individual spirit as a Black woman. The poem intersects the power and history of Blackness and womanhood to create a feeling of pride, strength, and independence. In the poem, Angelou uses a series of questions and responses to showcase her resolve in the face of bigotry and hatred. The poem is rhythmic, and much like the title, the tone rises as it goes, climaxing in the repetition of the inspirational “I rise” mantra that concludes the poem.

Further Literary Resources

“Published More Than 50 Years Ago, ‘I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings’ Launched a Revolution” by Veronica Chambers (2020)

This article discusses the publication of Angelou’s most famous book and its impact and cultural significance in the modern day. Chambers argues that Angelou’s writing is still powerful and relevant because she speaks to many current issues, including the #MeToo Movement, the rise of self-care, and ideas of hope in the face of adversity. The article also discusses Angelou’s life and the power of her story of overcoming oppression and silence.

“Maya Angelou” by Poetry Foundation

This article provides a comprehensive look at Angelou’s life as well as critical responses to her writing. The article also discusses the power of Angelou’s public readings, which she became more well-known for than her actual poetry. The article provides connections between Angelou and other writers throughout American history that inspired her writing and performances, including Frederick Douglass and Langston Hughes.

“Songs of the Civil Rights Movement” by Nick Morrison (2010)

This article provides a description of various songs that helped fuel the civil rights movement as well as links to listen to them. Music like this, along with older popular and folk music, inspired Angelou’s poetry, giving it its rhythmic qualities while also focusing on the struggle for justice and equality. Angelou had a long history with music and dance, and she even recorded an album when she was younger.

Listen to Poem

Maya Angelou reads her poem “Caged Bird”

In this video, Angelou reads part of the poem. People admired Angelou for her public readings, and though this clip is short, Angelou’s voice creates a powerful effect.