I know why the caged bird sings by Sharpe

I know why the caged bird sings
music by Bryan Sharpe
lyrics from the poem, Sympathy, by Paul Laurence Dunbar (1872-1906)

Lyrics
I know why the caged bird sings

When his wing is bruised and bosom sore

When he beats his bars

And would be free.

'Tis not the song of joy or glee

But a prayer that he sends

From his heart's deep core;

But a plea that upward

Toward heaven he flings.

I know why the caged bird sings.