1. Start with a Hook:
* A surprising or thought-provoking statement: "While many see [poem's title] as a simple love poem, a closer look reveals a complex exploration of..."
* A relevant anecdote: "Growing up, I always felt a sense of loneliness in [poem's title], but now I realize..."
* A question that sparks curiosity: "How does [poem's title] use imagery to convey the speaker's emotional journey?"
* A brief biographical fact about the poet: "Born into a time of [contextual information], [poet's name] reflects this experience in their poem [poem's title]."
2. Provide Context:
* Identify the poet and the poem's title: "This analysis will explore 'The Road Not Taken' by Robert Frost."
* Give a brief overview of the poem's subject matter: "The poem [poem's title] explores the themes of love, loss, and the fragility of life."
* Mention the poem's historical or literary significance: "Written during the [historical period], [poem's title] became a touchstone for poets seeking to express..."
* State your thesis statement: "This analysis argues that [poem's title] uses symbolism and imagery to convey the speaker's struggle with..."
3. Choose a Style:
* Formal and academic: "The purpose of this essay is to analyze the thematic and stylistic elements of [poem's title]."
* Informal and conversational: "Let's dive into this poem and see what makes it so captivating."
* Engaging and interactive: "Have you ever felt like you were walking down a path with no way back? This poem explores just that."
Remember to be clear, concise, and engaging in your introduction. Your goal is to pique your reader's interest and set the stage for your analysis.
Here's an example of a complete introduction:
> The poem "Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night" by Dylan Thomas is a powerful and moving lament on the inevitability of death. Written in a defiant and passionate tone, the poem explores the speaker's desperate plea for his father to resist the surrender to death. Through the use of powerful imagery, compelling metaphors, and a repeated refrain, Thomas constructs a poignant and enduring testament to the human will to fight for life even in the face of inevitable loss.