Question

consider the extended metaphor of the caged bird. then, choose the figurative meaning of each quotation from the poem. \but a bird that stalks / down his narrow cage / can seldom see through / his bars of rage\ the caged bird is so angry about his lack of freedom that it is all he can think about. \the caged bird sings / with a fearful trill / of things unknown / but longed for still\ the caged bird prefers singing to being free. the caged bird fears freedom because he only knows oppression. the caged bird desires freedom, even though he has never experienced it.

Explanation:

The phrase "of things unknown / but longed for still" indicates that the bird desires something it has not experienced. The "fearful trill" shows a mix of emotions, but the longing is the key aspect. The first option about preferring singing is incorrect as the focus is on longing. The second option about fearing freedom is not supported as the text emphasizes longing.

Answer:

The caged bird desires freedom, even though he has never experienced it.