Explicating a Poem
- Read the poem at least three times
- Paraphrase each line or stanza
- Who is the speaker? To whom is he or she speaking? What is the point of view?
- Examine the imagery and determine which of the five senses are appealed to in the poem.
- How does the poet manipulate the meanings of words? Identify any use of word connotations, allusion, repetition, puns, and irony. Identify lines and elaborate where necessary.
- What is the tone and atmosphere of the poem? Briefly explain how the diction and syntax affect the tone.
- What forms of figurative language are used in the poem? Identify and write the lines. How do these contribute to the effect of the poem?
- Besides rhyme, what other sound devices are used? Identify and write the lines. How do these contribute to the effect of the poem?
- Does the poet make use of symbolism? Identify lines, write the examples, and briefly explain.
- What is the universal theme or central idea of the poem? How well do you think the poet has the point across?
Subject:
English [1]
Subject X2:
English [1]