Symbolism plays a crucial role in literature, allowing authors to convey deeper meanings and themes through the use of symbols. In the poem “Caged Bird” by Maya Angelou, the symbolism of the caged bird versus the free bird serves as a powerful metaphor for struggles against oppression and the desire for freedom. This essay will delve deeper into the symbolism of Maya Angelou's "Caged Bird," focusing on the contrast between the caged bird and the free bird and its implications for the themes of captivity, resilience, and liberation. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The caged bird in Angelou's poem represents those who are oppressed, marginalized, or confined in some way. It symbolizes limitations imposed on individuals by external forces such as societal norms, discrimination or injustice. The caged bird's wings are clipped, preventing it from soaring freely and realizing its potential. These images evoke feelings of confinement, frustration and helplessness, highlighting the struggles faced by those trapped in oppressive circumstances. On the other hand, the free bird represents those who are privileged, empowered, or liberated. It symbolizes freedom, autonomy and the ability to pursue one's dreams and aspirations without hindrance. The free bird is able to fly high in the sky, without any physical or metaphorical barriers, embodying a sense of agency and empowerment. This contrast between the caged bird and the free bird highlights the stark disparities in opportunities and freedoms experienced by different individuals in society. In her analysis of "Caged Bird", literary critic Mary Jane Lupton highlights the dual nature of the bird's imagery, suggesting that the caged bird and the free bird can be seen as two aspects of the same thing. individual. Lupton argues that the caged bird represents the individual's internal struggles and conflicts, while the free bird symbolizes one's potential for growth, liberation, and self-realization. This interpretation adds depth to the symbolism of Angelou's poem, illustrating the complexity of human experiences and the interplay between oppression and liberation. Additionally, the symbolism of the caged bird and the free bird in “Caged Bird” resonates with broader themes of resilience and resistance. . Despite its confinement, the caged bird continues to sing, expressing its desire for freedom and its refusal to be silenced. This resilience in the face of adversity reflects the indomitable spirit of those who experience oppression and discrimination, finding strength in their ability to resist and persevere. The free bird, on the other hand, embodies the spirit of liberation and empowerment, inspiring others to break free from their constraints and pursue their own path to freedom. The symbolism of the caged bird and the free bird in "Caged Bird" can also be interpreted through a historical and cultural perspective. In her essay "Maya Angelou's Caged Bird and the Legacy of African American Oppression," scholar Jennifer L. Hollmeyer explains how the images in Angelou's poem reflect the historical struggles of African Americans in the United States. -United. The caged bird represents the oppression and systemic racism that African Americans have faced throughout history, while the free bird symbolizes the aspirations for freedom and equality that motivated the civil rights and social justice movements. Hollmeyer argues that the song of the caged bird in Angelou's poem can be seen as a.