Analysis of "Caged Bird" Poem

What is the GIST (main idea) of this poem? Summarize what is happening in 1-2 sentences.

Tags

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.8.5

CCSS.RL.7.10

CCSS.RL.7.5

Annotate the poem for figurative language and sound devices. Highlight AND label devices you find..

(Find three devices)

The poem contrasts two birds. Discuss examples of the speaker's choice of words that develop this contrast, including their connotation (e.g., "leaps" in line 1 and "stalks" in line 8). What metaphorical meaning(s) might the birds in the poem have?

Tags

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.8.5

CCSS.RL.7.10

CCSS.RL.7.4

What is the significance of singing in the poem? If the bird is singing of things unknown and feared, why does he still long for them? Why is his tune heard "on the distant hill" (line 20)?

• It symbolizes hope and the unknown.

• It represents the bird's desire for freedom.

• It signifies the joy of life despite its mysteries.

• It illustrates the bird's isolation.

Tags

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.8.5

CCSS.RL.7.10

CCSS.RL.7.4

Why is the free bird thinking of 'another breeze' and 'trade winds'?

• To explore new places

• Because it is lost

• To escape the winter

• It signifies freedom and adventure

Tags

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.8.5

CCSS.RL.7.10

CCSS.RL.7.5

What do the images of 'sighing trees' and 'fat worms' suggest, and what might they represent metaphorically?

Tags

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.8.5

CCSS.RL.7.5

CCSS.RL.7.4

In what sense might the bird 'name the sky his own', and how would you characterize the act of doing so?

• A symbol of freedom

• A claim of territory

• An expression of joy

• A display of ownership

Tags

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.8.5

CCSS.RL.7.5

CCSS.RL.9-10.10

What is the 'grave of dreams', and what device is this an example of? What things are contrasted with singing in this stanza, and what difference(s) is the speaker suggesting?

• A metaphor for unachieved goals, metaphor, silence and despair are contrasted with singing, suggesting a loss of hope and joy.

• A figurative grave where dreams are buried, imagery, joy and sorrow are contrasted with singing, indicating the complexity of human emotions.

• A historical site known for inspiring dreams, alliteration, darkness and light are contrasted with singing, highlighting the struggle between good and evil.

• An imaginary place in literature, hyperbole, life and death are contrasted with singing, emphasizing the transient nature of existence.

Tags

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.8.5

CCSS.RL.7.5

CCSS.RL.9-10.10

The title of Angelou's first autobiography is I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. What does her choice of that title suggest about her personal relationship to this poem?

• It reflects her struggle and eventual triumph over adversity.

• It indicates her love for bird watching.

• It suggests she had no personal connection to the poem, it was just a title.

• It shows her interest in singing.

Tags

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.8.5

CCSS.RL.7.10

CCSS.RL.7.4

Identify the theme of the poem. Write it in a complete statement.

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2