What does the caged bird symbolize?

The caged bird symbolizes oppression and the longing for freedom. It represents individuals or groups who are confined by societal constraints, limitations, or injustices. The struggle and desire to break free from these constraints highlight the universal yearning for autonomy, self-expression, and liberation. This metaphor is famously explored in Maya Angelou's poem "Caged Bird," emphasizing the contrast between freedom and captivity.