In Catherine Called Birdy, birds symbolize Catherine’s desire for freedom. Throughout the movie, Catherine is often compared to a bird, showing how she feels trapped like a caged bird in her life. Just like birds want to fly freely in the sky, Catherine wants to escape the restrictions placed on her by her family and society. The birds represent her wish to live life on her own terms. Therefore, the use of birds as a symbol helps readers understand how Catherine feels confined and dreams of independence.