Poetry can feel more challenging than prose because it does not immediately reveal what it means. Poems require an explanation of their various parts to appreciate their artistry, but it’s easy to get lost in the process. Here’s a map to help you explore and discover new worlds of meaning when analyzing poetry.

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1. Summary Swamp

Summary Swamp

Write a short summary of the poem to understand it at its most basic level. 

When you’ve done that, sail to…

2. Antecedent Archipelago

(Antecedent means something that came before.)

Ask yourself: What happened before the poem that inspired the speaker to start talking?

Then, hop over to…

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3. The Structural Divide

The Structural Divide

Break the poem into smaller pieces so it’s easier to analyze. How can you divide the poem by its rhymes?

 

When you’re finished, head over to…

4. Emotional Peak

Emotional Peak

What is the poem’s high point, or climax? Look for where the tone or emotions are the most intense.

Then climb down and travel to…

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5. The Fork(s) in the Road

Earlier you broke the poem into parts. After each part, ask: How does this part differ from the others? Think about shifts in tense, parts of speech emphasized, new person, etc.

Next, take a trip to…

6. Emotional Hills and Valleys

Emotional Hills and Valleys

What are the emotions in the poem, and how do they change over the course of it?

Then, put on your swim suit and head to…

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1. Language Lagoon

How many sentences are there? What kind of diction does the poet use? (Diction means word choice.)

When you’re done, dry off and travel to…

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8. Power Piazza

Power Piazza

Who has the power, or agency, in this poem? The speaker? Someone else? Look at the verbs and figure out who controls them.

Afterward, leave the city and trek to…

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9. Genre Gully

Genre Gully

What kind of poem is this? What genre conventions does it use?

Finally, hop aboard a train to your final stop…

10. Imagination Station

Imagination Station

Reflect: What about the poem is especially striking? What is something special that the poet invented?

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