“The caged bird sings with a fearful trill, of things unknown, but longed for still, and his tune is heard on the distant hill, for the caged bird sings of freedom.”
― Maya Angelou, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
Maya Angelou’s autobiography “I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings” is the first part of a seven book series. It depicts the struggles of growing up as a black woman in America. It is a coming of age story that is honest and insightful in its portrayal of oppression, racism and bigotry. The novel is highly inspirational as we see the courage and strength of Angelou even at the lowest point in her life. It is indeed a tribute to her fighting spirit and courage!
The book serves as an eye opener to the discrimination faced by the rural Southern Blacks in America in 1930s. It highlights the struggles of Blacks working hard against all odds to put a decent meal for their family. As Angelou’s grandmother’s store in rural Arkansas served as a gathering point for the laborers, she was able to witness firsthand the plight of the laborers who worked hard in the cotton farms of the South.
Oppression of blacks and hatred and suspicion towards whites are the recurring themes in the book. Like any coming-of-age novel, sexual themes are also explored heavily by Angelou. A heartrending chapter of the book deals with the molestation and rape of an eight-year-old Maya in the hands of her mother’s boyfriend. Apart from rape, lesbianism and teenage pregnancy are also prominent themes as the teenage Maya struggles to adapt to the changes happening around her and within her body. The sexual escapades of Maya’s father in Mexico and her mother with her many boyfriends and an active nightlife also figure prominently in the book.
The book is a bold portrayal of the spirit of her times written by a free spirited Maya in the 1960s. It would have definitely been ground breaking at that time owing to the bold writing and themes discussed. The sexual themes discussed in this book are handled with great delicateness and maturity. The book might have been and will be cathartic to thousands of people who could identify with what Maya has written about- be it oppression, racial discrimination or sexual exploitation. On account of these themes, it never loses its significance with time as they are universal and transcends time. The book can be taken out of its setting in rural America and can be read with a broader perspective.
Maya never shies away from an honest portrayal in the book and expresses her emotions without any abandon. Her anger, sorrow, rage, happiness and ignorance are depicted without inhibition. Although the book depicts serious societal issues and personal experiences, it always manages to motivate the readers at the end. The climax ends at a jubilant note with Maya looking forward to a new future with its own struggles and happiness. Overall, this coming of age story is a must read for anyone irrespective of their reading preferences as this book is indeed a gem! However, parental discretion is advised as the sexual themes explored may not be suitable for very young children.
No comments:
Post a Comment