In the poem “The Bird Sanctuary” by Sarojini Naidu, the metaphor of the garden and birds stands for the beauty and freedom of nature, as well as the need to protect and preserve it.

The speaker describes the bird sanctuary as a “garden of winged wonders,” where the birds are free to fly and sing without fear. This image of the sanctuary as a garden suggests that it is a place of beauty and serenity, where nature is allowed to flourish and grow. The birds themselves are described as “gay-plumed” and “bright-eyed,” which emphasizes their beauty and vitality.

At the same time, the poem also suggests that this beauty and freedom is threatened by human encroachment and destruction of nature. The speaker notes that the birds are “vagrant, harried, homeless things,” and that their wings are “worn with strife.” This suggests that the birds are struggling to survive in an environment that is increasingly hostile to their needs.

The metaphor of the garden and birds, therefore, serves to highlight the importance of preserving and protecting nature. It represents the need to create spaces where wildlife can thrive and grow, and where the beauty and freedom of nature can be appreciated and enjoyed. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of human actions on the environment, and the need to take steps to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations.