Paul Laurence Dunbar's "Sympathy": An Expression of Both the Specific African-American Experience and the Universal Human Desire for Freedom and Hope

Paul Laurence Dunbar
(June 27, 1872 – February 9, 1906),
 seminal African American poet,
circa 1890.

One of Dunbar's most beloved poems, "Sympathy," is included in his first poetry collection, "Oak and Ivy." Drawing from the stories his mother shared about slavery during his childhood, Dunbar incorporated these experiences into his literary works. In "Sympathy," the speaker expresses empathy towards a caged bird, which serves as a metaphor for the plight of enslaved black people who were confined and oppressed by white Americans. Through this identification with the bird's struggle for freedom and its experience of bondage and suffering, the speaker aligns their own experiences with those of the enslaved black population. The poem thus becomes an expression of both the specific African-American experience and the universal human desire for freedom and hope.

Incorporating this additional information, in fact, Paul Laurence Dunbar emerges as a significant figure in American literature, using his poetry and prose to shed light on the African-American experience and confront the issues of slavery, oppression, and the longing for freedom. His personal connection to the history of slavery and his ability to capture the emotions and aspirations of his community contributed to his enduring popularity and his importance in the development of African-American literature. "Sympathy" stands as a testament to Dunbar's talent for expressing both individual and collective struggles, while also highlighting the universal human longing for liberation.

Image by G.C. from Pixabay

The theme of captivity and the longing for freedom are the two themes of "Sympathy". Through vivid imagery and emotional depth, the poem draws a parallel between the experience of a caged bird and the struggles of individuals who are oppressed or confined.

The poem begins with the speaker acknowledging their understanding of the caged bird's feelings. The description of a beautiful, idyllic scene emphasizes the stark contrast between the bird's captivity and the freedom of the natural world. The bird longs to partake in the joys of spring, symbolized by the singing bird, blooming buds, and the scent of flowers. However, the caged bird is confined, unable to experience these simple pleasures:

"I know what the caged bird feels, alas!

    When the sun is bright on the upland slopes;   

When the wind stirs soft through the springing grass,   

And the river flows like a stream of glass;

    When the first bird sings and the first bud opes,   

And the faint perfume from its chalice steals—

I know what the caged bird feels!"

The second stanza draws us deeper into the reasons behind the caged bird's actions. The bird beats its wings against the bars, resulting in bloodshed, as it yearns to escape and return to its natural habitat. The mention of "old, old scars" suggests a history of repeated attempts to break free, each met with disappointment and pain. The bird's desire to fly and be on the swinging bough reflects its innate instinct for freedom, contrasting sharply with its confinement:

"I know why the caged bird beats his wing

    Till its blood is red on the cruel bars;   

For he must fly back to his perch and cling   

When he fain would be on the bough a-swing;

    And a pain still throbs in the old, old scars   

And they pulse again with a keener sting—

I know why he beats his wing!"

In the final stanza, the poem reveals the true meaning behind the caged bird's song. It is not a song of joy or happiness but rather a desperate prayer and plea for liberation. The bird's wing is bruised, and its bosom is sore from its struggles. The act of beating against the bars and singing is a fervent expression of its longing for release. The caged bird's song becomes a symbol of resilience and hope, a heartfelt cry sent from the depths of its being:

"I know why the caged bird sings, ah me,

    When his wing is bruised and his bosom sore,—

When he beats his bars and he would be free;

It is not a carol of joy or glee,

    But a prayer that he sends from his heart’s deep core,   

But a plea, that upward to Heaven he flings—

I know why the caged bird sings!"  

By employing the metaphor of the caged bird, Dunbar captures the universal experience of individuals who are denied their basic rights and yearn for liberation. The poem invites readers to empathize with those who are trapped in various forms of captivity, urging us to recognize the importance of freedom and compassion.

Note: Paul Laurence Dunbar (1872-1906) was born in Dayton, Ohio, USA. As the son of former slaves, he was deeply connected to the African-American experience and became one of the earliest writers to contribute to the African-American poetic tradition. While Dunbar faced challenges as a black writer in a predominantly white literary world, he managed to establish a literary reputation both within America and internationally. He published several volumes of poetry, showcasing his mastery of both standard English and the dialect of African-Americans. Dunbar also wrote numerous short stories and social commentaries.

ARDHENDU DE