Question

Read the passage from “The Caged Bird.”

The free bird thinks of another breeze
and the trade winds soft through the sighing trees
and the fat worms waiting on a dawn bright lawn
and he names the sky his own

What are the connotative meanings of sighing, as used in the poem? Check all that apply.

longing
sadness
relaxation
exhaling
peacefulness
breathing

Answer 1

C. relaxation

E. peacefulness

Step-by-step explanation:

“Sighing” as used in the poem depicts well-rested and calm trees. It talks about the movement of trees as a result of the direction the wind takes it to. Without the winds, the trees do not come alive but when hit by the wind, the life in it is evident by the movement of its branches which can be equated to a sigh.

Answer 2

The correct answers are : relaxation and peacefulness.

Step-by-step explanation:

In this poem by Maya Angelou it is reflected how a caged bird yearns for freedom, wants to be free like other birds.

From his cage he can see the relaxation and peace that these trees transmit, and he wishes he felt that way and could fly freely. That is the image that the author wants to transmit, the peace and tranquility that the wind from those trees causes.

All it sees through the cage is what it longs for but can't get.