Some readers enjoy reading a poem. They perceive the literary beauty that is integrated in the composition of their words, in their rhythm and in their musicality. However, the language of poetry has some specific characteristics. Therefore, reading a poem is different from a novel or a story. It is convenient to enjoy each verse with pause, calm and full attention to reveal your message. how to analyze a poem? In Formación y Estudios We propose a guide to complete the process.
1. Structure: number of verses and stanzas
The beauty of a poem is perceived directly through its presentation. What is the internal organization of the composition? For example, during the analysis phase you can look at the number of verses and stanzas. In turn, specify other details such as the number of syllables that make up each verse. Is the rhyme present in the poem? At what point is it contextualized? For example, You can look at the verses that have an ending that enhances the musicality in reading aloud.
2. Literary figures and stylistic devices
The message of a poem goes beyond the literal interpretation of the words. The poet plays with the beauty of stylistic resources and literary figures. Therefore, during the analysis of a work you can put the accent on those ingredients that are integrated into the framework of the composition. For example, underline the symbols and metaphors that stand out in the written text. There is a widely used resource in the world of poetry: the acrostic. It is a very attractive resource for the reader who reveals a key word or a sentence when he links the letters that are integrated at the beginning of each verse.
3. Author of the work
The analysis of a poem can also be connected to the talent of its author. That is, it is advisable to broaden the context of the work to specify some of the most important details. Who is the author of the poem? When did you write the play? What common themes does the writer address in his literary career? What are his references and sources of inspiration? Is the author part of a literary movement in which the creativity of other relevant names stands out?
4. Message of the poem
How to understand what the poem means, especially when you delve into the most complex parts? Read carefully the verses and stanzas. He underlines the words you want to delve into. Try to deduce a first general idea from your point of view. Each poem, in essence, is enriched by the interpretation, contribution and point of view of the reader. Many poems address universal themes such as love, friendship, nature, happiness, nostalgia, death, life, beauty... But the language of poetry can also become a medium that emphasizes injustice or social criticism. In other words, it gives voice to a just cause.
5. Look up the meaning of the words you don't know in the dictionary
A poem usually stands out for the beauty of its puns, stylistic resources and literary figures. Maybe there is some concept that you don't know. Well, if you want to clarify the information, it is essential that you use the dictionary to find the meaning of those terms that are strange to you or cause you some kind of confusion. In the first moment, tries to deduce the meaning from the context the word is in. Later, it contrasts the data with a reference source: the dictionary.
Finally, you can cultivate the habit of reading poetry to get acquainted with such a creative genre.