1. Read and Re-Read:
* First Reading: Read the poem once through for general understanding.
* Second Reading: Read the poem again, paying attention to punctuation, line breaks, and any unfamiliar words.
* Subsequent Readings: Further readings will help you identify patterns, themes, and deeper meaning.
2. Identify the Speaker:
* Who is speaking? Is it a specific person, a persona, or an unnamed voice?
* What is the speaker's tone and attitude? Are they objective, emotional, humorous, etc.?
3. Analyze Structure and Form:
* What kind of poem is it? (e.g., sonnet, ballad, free verse)
* What is the rhyme scheme, if any?
* How does the structure contribute to the meaning?
4. Examine Language and Diction:
* Identify key words, phrases, and images.
* Are there any metaphors, similes, or other literary devices?
* How does the language create a particular effect?
5. Explore Imagery and Symbolism:
* What sensory details are used?
* Are there any recurring symbols or motifs?
* What do these images and symbols represent?
6. Analyze Theme and Meaning:
* What is the main idea or message of the poem?
* Are there any recurring ideas or themes?
* How does the poem make you feel?
7. Consider the Historical and Cultural Context:
* When and where was the poem written?
* What were the social and political conditions of the time?
* How do these factors affect the poem's meaning?
8. Look for Patterns and Repetition:
* Are there any repeated words, phrases, or images?
* What effect do these repetitions have?
9. Analyze Sound Devices:
* Identify any examples of alliteration, assonance, consonance, or onomatopoeia.
* How do these sound devices contribute to the poem's effect?
10. Evaluate the Poem's Success:
* Is the poem effective in conveying its message?
* What are the strengths and weaknesses of the poem?
* How does this poem compare to other poems you've read?
Remember, poetry analysis is a subjective process. There is no one right answer, and different readers may interpret the same poem in different ways. The most important thing is to be thoughtful and thorough in your analysis.