Papers about specific poets can focus on a certain period or all phases of their lives. Looking at a certain time in a poet's life provides insight into her style. Her influences could come from outside factors, such as her community, or personal issues, such as mental illness. For example, a paper about Percy Bysshe Shelley might include information about how his beliefs of love and faith in man became prominent in his poetry.
Think about dividing poems into categories. Sonnets, ballads, epics and odes are some of the best-known types. A paper may study one specific category or give a brief analysis of each. Some categories of poetry are synonymous with an author, such as Shakespearean sonnets. No matter which approach you use, ensure you're using works from poets that followed the specific rules for the type of poetry on which you choose to write. Selecting the wrong poems to illustrate a category can lead to a failing grade or a publisher rejection.
Analyzing a specific poem offers many options for a research paper. Interpretation of the poem can relate to events going on today as well as the time in which it was written. Examine what it means to the reader, in addition to the author's possible intention. Another potential topic is detailing the history of a poem. Address the topics of the author, the period in which was it written and the purpose or reason for its creation. Cover the possibilities of what the poet might have been trying to convey in the work.
Entire genres offer a great deal of information about which to write. For example, looking at the works of Edgar Allan Poe and Clive Barker might give the reader an insight into decades of horror poetry, as well as its evolution. Examining works from a country or region of the world is an extension of this idea. Keeping focus on a specific area may be necessary, especially if you are writing for a class or publication focusing on one subject, such as English literature.
Encouraging readers to create their own poetry by offering methods you've researched is a possible paper topic. Offer suggestions as well as outlining standards for creating works. Outline basics of poetry such as rhyme, tone, metaphors and rhythm. Use examples from famous works to illustrate ideas throughout to better educate the reader. If you write poetry, include you own techniques to show your process.