"I Know Why the Caged Bird Signs" permits us, as responders to the text, to sympathise in Angelou's plight for identity and belonging. The text enables the audience to vicariously live alongside Maya during her early childhood; through her torments, trails and tribulations. She embraces her circumstances in order to empower herself, acting in a manner of dignity, self-respect and honour. Angelou is a formidable and inspiring individual who was successful in voicing her opinions by rebelling against societies' perception on African-Americans, therefore liberating herself and breaking free from the cage of racism. Throughout the autobiography, Angelou grows as an individual, in character and in her moral strength. |