How to Read a Poem - Help Sheet

Poetry Analysis

Always start out by reading the poem aloud…

STRUCTURE:

• Has the poem got any particular shape or form? How many stanzas are there?

• What rhyme scheme – if any – is used? (For example abab cdcd etc.)

• Is the rhythm in any way specific? Rhythm in poetry is the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables. If there is a regular rhythm it is called a metre, and a poem written with a metre is said to be metrical. If there is no regular rhythm, the poem is said to be written in free verse.

• What kind of language is the poem written in? Is the language simple or complex, formal/informal/colloquial?

• Is there alliteration and assonance? We have assonance but not alliteration

• Is figurative language (metaphors, similes, personification, symbols) used in the poem? Yes, there is a lot of similes, some metaphors and a small amount of symbols.

• What is the effect of the poetic devices? It sounds more poetic and complexed.

CONTENT:

• Who is speaking in the poem? If it isn’t quite clear, start by considering out of what situation or feeling the poem may have been written. Sheakspear telling everyone who will listening that women aren’t goddesses but normal people

• What is the poem about? What has the poem got to say about this particular subject? Does the poem tell a story or describe a feeling?

• What is the tone of the poem? Tone refers to the attitude expressed by the poet and is often created by the choice of words. The tone may be ironic, serious, cheerful etc.

• What is the theme of the poem? The theme is the central idea that the poet wishes to communicate to his readers. For example, two poems may both deal with the same subject ‘war’, but the poets may wish to express different views on war: ‘the glory of war’ vs. ‘the futility of war’. Also look at the title and how the theme is developed.

• Who do you think is meant to be the recipient of the poem?

• Is there an overall message in the poem?

• Compare the poem to other poems you have read which have the same or a similar theme.