The Caged Bird Sings the Truth

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It’s a been a few days since I started reading I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou. So far this book has been such a great read, because of its poem like flow. Maya’s use of extended metaphors to describe such intense situations really helps readers, like me, grasp just what she went through at such a young age. Prior to reading this book I’ve read many of Angelou’s poems throughout my high school career. Just like her poems, Angelou writes this book with a passion to convey strong messages like the importance of family, love, and education. So far I’m really enjoying this book because of the personal tone Angelou uses to connect with her readers. Her use of wit and wisdom really appeals to me as makes it easier for me to understand the things she went through. I feel like I’m having a direct conversation with her and I think that’s one of the most important things readers should be able to experience when reading a memoir.

 

Angelou uses great metaphors and engaging lines to appeal to her audience. One of my favorite lines so far are the very few that begin the book, in the prologue,  “What you looking at me for?… I didn’t come to stay…” this quotes describes the sense of displacement Angelou experiences throughout her childhood. Angelou uses such conversational quotes throughout her memoir and it really gives her story a personal touch that the audience can grasp. Even with such intense topics and themes so far Angelou has really used her talent to effectively share her stories in a light but straightforward manner. Her intricate word choice makes her stories that much more interesting and empowering. I’m looking forward to reading more about her journey through life, and the metaphors she describes it in.