"I Know Why Caged Bird Sings" Flashcard

Front

What does the 'bird that stalks down his narrow cage' symbolize?

Back

The bird represents a person who feels angry, confined, caged, but still expressive.

Front

What literary device is exemplified by 'Dips his wings in the orange sun rays'?

Back

This phrase serves as an example of imagery and symbolism.

Front

Which line parallels 'He names the sky his own'?

Back

It parallels 'The free bird…dares to claim the sky.'

Front

How does the speaker refer to herself in the poem?

Back

The speaker refers to herself as 'I.'

Front

What is the tone of the speaker in the first stanza?

Back

The tone seems triumphant and elated.

Front

What does the term 'imagery' refer to in literature?

Back

Imagery refers to descriptive language that creates visual representations in the reader's mind.

Front

Define 'symbolism' in the context of poetry.

Back

Symbolism is the use of symbols to represent ideas or qualities.

Front

What is the significance of the 'caged bird' in Maya Angelou's poem?

Back

The caged bird symbolizes oppression and the struggle for freedom.

Front

What does the 'free bird' represent in the poem?

Back

The free bird represents freedom, opportunity, and the ability to pursue dreams.

Front

Explain the concept of 'tone' in poetry.

Back

Tone refers to the speaker's attitude toward the subject or audience, conveyed through word choice and style.