Question

Write four to six sentences explaining the use of extended metaphor in the poem "Caged Bird” by Maya Angelou.

Answer 1

Maya Angelou employs many different techniques. She contrasts a free bird with a caged bird which they are the metaphors between the people living in freedom and people who live in oppression. The caged bird is a metaphor for African Americans who experiences racism and discrimination. The poem shows that despite that difficulties people didn't keep silent and demanded their freedom. The closing remarks of the first stanza is '' (the free bird) dares to claim the sky", where the author depicts the unfairness of white people toward blacks.

Answer 2

This poem is an extended metaphor. Although the speaker doesn't mention any races, it is clear that she is showing how the freedoms allotted whites are diametrically opposed to those given to the blacks. In the first stanza, the speaker illustrates how the free bird, or white race, is untroubled. It also shows how the white race has the audacity to own and govern society unjustly. The speaker concludes'' (the free bird) dares to claim the sky". This shows how whites demonstrated discrimination and prejudice toward blacks. Unfortunately, this deplorable conduct was condoned in society.