Who is the speaker and what is subject of the poem "Caged Bird"?

As was mentioned in the
previous response, the poem is written in the third person from an omniscient point of
view. Utilizing omniscient narration,compares and contrasts the plight of a free
bird to that of a caged bird. She juxtaposes the environment and nature of the free bird to
illuminate the harsh, depressing life of the caged bird. While the free bird is given the
opportunity to fly and "claim the sky," the caged bird's feet are tied and "can
seldom see through his bars of rage." Unlike the caged bird, the free bird lives an
independent, delightful existence. The caged bird can only open his throat to sing of things
hoped for and unknown. Maya'sof the caged bird's helpless existence illustrates
the oppressive experience of African Americans. The poem is also autobiographical
and depicts Maya's resilience and strength in the face of adversity. The fact that the caged
bird sings of freedom despite its current situation conveys a feeling of hope that one day the
caged bird will be released. This message coincides with the hope that one day African Americans
will no longer suffer from discrimination and oppression in a prejudiced
society.