The bird that can sing and will not sing, must be made to sing.

The proverb treats unused ability as something others may demand rather than merely admire. Its singing bird represents someone who can perform a valued task but chooses not to.

The forceful ending expresses an expectation that reluctance should be overcome. Depending on the situation, it can convey frustration with a refusal or reveal a willingness to pressure someone into acting.

Use it to describe a situation in which someone is capable of a task but unwilling to undertake it, and others insist on their participation. Because the wording favors compulsion, it may sound harsh if the person has good reasons for declining.