Describe what is keeping the caged bird in a state of captivity.

As depicted in Maya Angelou’s poem “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings”, the caged bird is forced to stay in captivity. He is kept closed in a cage with his wings clipped and his feet tied. So, he has no other option but stay in his captive state.

However, his dream of freedom some day helps him stay in such a condition.