Read the poem once, making sure that you understand the scene and situation literally. Underline any words, actions or moments that seem particularly important. Look up any words that you do not know.
Read the poem again. Determine what the dominant emotion is that is evoked by the poem. How does it make you feel? What particular descriptions, rhymes or phrases help create this feeling? Make notes recording your reactions to the poem.
Determine how the speaker feels about the scene or situation. Where is he or she situated? What is at stake for him or her? Make notes about your observations.
Read the poem again. Now that you understand the literal significance of the language and situation as well as the emotional state of the poem's speaker, underline any objects, phrases or descriptions that have meaning beyond the surface, literal level.
Determine the metaphorical significance of these objects or descriptions. Does a message emerge from the figurative language of the poem? Compile notes describing how this second level of meaning impacts the poem and your understanding of the poem.