74). The poem goes on to say not even money can prevent you from being alone. "There are some millionaires With money they can't use Their wives run round like banshees Their children sing the blues They've got expensive doctors To cure their hearts of stone. But nobody No, nobody Can make it out here alone" (Angelou, 1994 p.74). She uses repetition to deliver her message of this poem ending each stanza with, "Alone, all alone Nobody, but nobody Can make it out here alone" (Angelou, 1994 p.75). .
An imprisoned soul in need of release is another theme that is seen in many of Angelou's works. Usually these souls are broken from racism, bigotry, hatred or other negative aspects of human behavior. Her poem, "Caged Bird," clearly expresses this theme. This poem states that there are two birds, one trapped in a cage, and the other is free and flying in the sky. This poem was written about segregation during the civil rights era. The caged bird represents the black race being held back from freedom by their skin color. The fat worms and breeze, symbolize hope and opportunity. It is constantly repeated that, "His wings are clipped and his feet are tied so he opens his throat to sing" (Angelou, 1994 p.194). The caged bird may have little hope of becoming free, but he yearns for freedom nonetheless. Despite having anger and bitterness from his natural inclinations unnaturally stifled, he remains determined he will not only hope for freedom and sing for freedom. He also hopes that his expression will be heard. .
"Still I Rise," is all about staying strong no matter what comes at you in life. It is a poem whose speaker refuses to be conquered or deprived, due to the hate and violence of racism. This poem could be easily transferred to any great difficulty in a person's life. It is about taking responsibility, and overcoming obstacles. Anyone can feel discriminated against, it is how you react and move forward that counts.
