Caged Bird
Unveiling the Silent Symphony: Alicia Keys' Caged Bird
Lyrics
Right now I feel like a bird
Feeling confined like a bird unable to freely move or escape
caged without a key
Metaphorically trapped without access to freedom or choice
Ev'ryone comes to stare at me
People gather to observe, but their presence adds to the feeling of being on display
with so much joy and reverie
Others watch with happiness and deep admiration
They don't know how I feel inside
Despite appearances, no one comprehends the emotional turmoil within
Through my smile I cry
An outward expression of happiness (smile) hides internal sadness (crying)
They don't know what they're doing to me
Unaware of the emotional impact of their actions on the speaker
keeping me from flying
Preventing the speaker from pursuing freedom or personal growth
That's why I say that I know why
Understanding the reason behind the emotional state caused by confinement
the caged bird sings
Referencing the expression of emotions despite being confined, akin to the bird singing
Only joy comes from song
The only positive emotion (joy) expressed comes through the act of singing
She's so rare and beautiful to others
Describing the bird's unique beauty and rarity to others' perceptions
Why not just set her free
Questioning why the bird isn't allowed freedom despite its beauty
so she can fly, fly, fly
Expressing a desire for the bird to soar and express itself freely
spreading her wings and her song?
Encouraging the bird to spread its wings and its unique expression (song)
Let her fly, fly, fly
Reiterating the call for the bird to be allowed freedom to be seen by the world
the whole world to see
She's like a caged bird
Comparing the speaker's situation to that of a caged bird, emphasizing similarity
Fly, fly, ooh, just let her fly
Urging for the bird's freedom, emphasizing the plea to let it fly
just let her fly, just let her fly
Repetition for emphasis on the desire for the bird's freedom
spread her wings
Encouraging the bird to expand its reach and showcase its beauty
spread beauty, mm
Encouragement to spread beauty and positivity
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