How do the events in "i know why the caged bird sings” most influence maya angelou’s later poem, "the caged bird”? her sessions with mrs. flowers gave her an understanding of how to read and write poetry. her childhood experiences gave her an understanding of being trapped and being free. her embarrassment at momma’s uneducated speech led her to use formal language. her disapproval of the poverty in her town led her to make it a major part of her later work.