Read the poem. Take notes on the imagery that is used in the poem. Pay close attention to how the imagery is used and under what context it is being used.
Determine whether the imagery is consistent throughout the poem. For instance, does the poem use a lot of nature images? Does it use cityscape imagery? Or does the poem use contradictory images, such as the juxtaposition of industrial images with natural ones?
Analyze how the imagery is used in the poem and the effect it has overall. For instance, what effect does the consistent use of industrial images, such as factories, smokestacks, and so on, have on the poem? What mood or tone does it convey?
Analyze the poet’s use of language. Focus on the words or figures of speech the poet uses to describe the image. For instance, a spiral staircase in a poem can be described as the spiral of a seashell. In what way does this metaphor or simile heighten its meaning or context?
Analyze the ways in which the imagery enhances or highlights the poem’s theme. For instance, the juxtaposition of industrial and natural images may highlight the poet’s ideas about modern life. Show how these images lead to the thematic conclusion of the poem.