You should take note of the author’s name and, if possible, research his life. A poet’s beliefs, lifestyle and time period can influence the contents of his work. Search for political statements and passions that may emerge within the text.
In some cases, a poet uses a title that reflects the theme of the poem. Although the title is the first element you notice, you should revisit the title after you have read the entire piece. You may have to examine the text carefully to find statements that expand on or connect to the title.
Examine the imagery throughout the poem. Images are easy to notice because these elements appeal to your five basics senses. Decide whether each image is meant to be taken literally or figuratively.
Examine the physical layout of the poem. Keep count of the stanzas and watch for rhythm and rhyme schemes. Some poets even utilize line breaks to emphasize specific words or give them multiple meanings.
Pay attention to the tones that the speaker of the poem utilizes. For example, you may find that the speaker has assumed a sarcastic tone in one section of the poem and a more sincere tone in another section. Keep track of the speaker’s changing emotions and general outlook on the subject.
Some elements of the poem may harbor an underlying meaning that contributes to the overall piece. Even commonplace objects such as trees and birds may be more than what they initially seem. Not every element within a poem is a symbol, but look for items and actions that reoccur throughout the stanzas.
Search for events within the poem. Some poems present obvious chronological narrations, while others involve subtle changes in events. After you finish the poem, reexamine the piece for signs of foreshadowing.
Some poems draw attention to items outside of the written work. For example, an author may reference historical events, mythology or even other works of literary art. To understand the poem, you have to research the sources of the allusions.