1. Scansion:
Start by scanning the poem line by line. Scansion involves dividing a line into its basic units of rhythm, known as feet. Common feet include iamb (unstressed-stressed), trochee (stressed-unstressed), anapaest (two unstressed-stressed), and dactyl (stressed-two unstressed).
2. Identify the Syllable Patterns:
Determine the number of unstressed and stressed syllables in each foot. Mark the stressed syllables with a "/" and unstressed syllables with a "U".
3. Count the Feet per Line:
Determine how many feet make up each line of the poem. This will help you establish the meter of the poem.
4. Identify the Meter:
Based on the arrangement of feet, identify the meter of the poem. Some common meters include iambic pentameter (five iambs per line), trochaic tetrameter (four trochees per line), and dactylic hexameter (six dactyls per line).
5. Determine Line Length:
Count the total number of syllables in each line, regardless of stress patterns. This will give you the line length. For example, a line with ten syllables is a decasyllabic line.
6. Analyze Repetition and Variation:
Pay attention to the repetition or variation of meter and line length throughout the poem. Poets may use different patterns to create specific effects or emphasize certain parts of the poem.
7. Examine the Overall Rhyme Scheme:
Note the rhyme scheme of the poem, paying attention to the patterns of rhyming words at the ends of lines. The rhyme scheme can also contribute to the poem's structure.
Remember, not all poems adhere to strict meter and line length rules. Some poems may employ free verse, which does not have a consistent metrical pattern. Always consider the poet's intent, style, and the overall meaning of the poem when analyzing meter and line length.