1. Read the poem multiple times:
- Read the poem aloud to get a feel for its rhythm and flow.
- Pay attention to how the words sound together.
2. Identify the speaker and the tone:
- Determine who is speaking in the poem. Is it the poet or a persona?
- Identify the tone of the poem. Is it serious, ironic, humorous, or melancholic?
3. Examine the poetic devices:
- Look for literary devices such as metaphors, similes, alliterations, personifications, and symbolism.
- Analyze how the poet uses these devices to create imagery and convey meaning.
4. Analyze the imagery:
- Identify the visual, sensory, and figurative language in the poem.
- Pay attention to how the poet uses imagery to evoke emotions and create a vivid mental picture.
5. Explore the theme:
- Identify the central theme or themes of the poem.
- Consider the poem's message or underlying idea.
6. Examine the structure:
- Analyze the poem's structure, such as the number of stanzas, the line breaks, and the overall form (sonnet, free verse, etc.).
- Consider how the structure contributes to the poem's meaning.
7. Consider the title:
- Analyze how the title relates to the poem's content and themes.
- Consider if the title provides clues to the poem's meaning.
8. Interpret the poem:
- Based on your analysis of the poem's structure, imagery, and themes, develop an interpretation of its meaning.
- Connect the various elements of the poem to present your interpretation.
9. Discuss the poet's craft:
- Consider the poet's use of language, style, and technique.
- Analyze how the poet's craft contributes to the effectiveness of the poem.
10. Personal response:
- Reflect on your own personal response to the poem.
- Consider what emotions the poem evokes and what thoughts it inspires.
11. Research the poet and context:
- Learn about the poet's background, influences, and the context in which the poem was written.
- Consider how this context may inform your analysis of the poem.
12. Formulate your analysis:
- Write down your analysis, incorporating your observations about the poem's structure, imagery, themes, and your personal response.
- Support your interpretation with evidence from the poem itself.
Remember that poetry analysis can be subjective, and different readers may interpret the same poem in different ways. The key is to provide a well-reasoned analysis based on close reading and consideration of the poem's various elements.