Maya Angelou Essay

930 Words4 Pages
Maya had a terrible childhood growing up in Stamps, Arkansas. Although she describes how difficult her life is, she always pulls it through. Many characters influences Maya like Vivian, the mother, Mr. Freeman, Vivian’s boyfriend, Momma, Maya’s grandmother, and Ms. Flowers, but all these characters just gives Maya an impression that last forever. However, none of these characters gives Maya an outstanding influence. Unlike any other characters, Bailey was the only one who protects Maya and a great brother based on the novel, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou. Bailey protected Maya when someone makes fun of her because of her appearance. Angelou said, “when our elders said unkind things about my features (my family was handsome to a point of pain for me), Bailey would wink at me from across the room, and I knew that it was a matter of time before he would take revenge” (I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Angelou, 1997, p.22). Whenever people were talking about Maya having a bad appearance, Bailey was the only one who protects her. He doesn’t want anyone to laugh at his sister. Therefore, Bailey has the greatest influence on Maya. Another reason why Bailey has the greatest influence on Maya is because he is a good brother. Maya trust Bailey the most because they always tell each other joke, secrets, and he is always there for Maya. When Mr. Freeman raped Maya, Maya became mute. People in her family were looking down at her and they stayed away from her, except Bailey. Angelou discuss, “they understood that I could talk to Bailey, but to no one else” (p.88). He is the first and only person Maya talks to. After talking to Bailey, she understands Bailey is important to Maya. It gives Maya a little self-esteem. Therefore, Bailey changed Maya’s life by encouraging her through support. On the other hand, the readers think Bailey may not be the most
Open Document