Structural Markers:
* Stanza Breaks: The most common indicator, a new stanza often signifies a new thought, idea, or scene.
* Line Breaks: Sometimes, a break in a line can emphasize a word or phrase, marking a subtle shift in tone or focus.
* Enjambment: The continuation of a sentence or phrase across a line break can suggest a change in direction.
* Changes in Rhyme or Meter: A shift in rhyme scheme or meter can also signal a shift in content.
Content Markers:
* Conjunctions: Words like "but," "yet," "however," "although," "still," "therefore," "thus," and "nevertheless" often introduce a change in direction or perspective.
* Adverbs: Adverbs like "suddenly," "now," "then," "later," "here," "there," "finally," or "again" can mark shifts in time or location.
* Pronoun Shifts: A change in the pronoun used (e.g., from "I" to "we" or "you") might indicate a change in speaker or perspective.
* Shift in Tone or Imagery: A noticeable change in the overall tone, mood, or imagery can also signify a shift in the poem.
Other Clues:
* Repetition: Repeating a word or phrase can emphasize a shift.
* Direct Address: A speaker addressing a specific person or entity might mark a new direction.
* Symbolism: The introduction or transformation of a symbol could suggest a change in meaning.
Ultimately, understanding the subtle signals of a shift requires a deep reading of the poem. Look for the patterns, changes, and connections that contribute to the overall meaning and experience.