How to study Poetry: Asking Questions about Poems

Understanding the Poem

Begin by reading the poem a few times to familiarise yourself with its content. Notice the title and ponder what it might suggest about the poem.
Identify the subject matter of the poem - what is the poem about at its most basic level?
Ascertain the poem’s theme - this is the ‘deeper message’ or the bigger ideas being explored.
Question whether there’s a noticeable shift in theme or tone in the poem. This is particularly common in sonnets.
Note the use of imagery and metaphors. What do they add to the understanding of the poem’s messages?

Analysing Language and Structure

Examine the poem’s form. Is it a sonnet, free verse, a ballad, or does it have some other structure?
Consider the rhythm and metre of the poem. How does it flow, and how does this impact the read?
Identify the rhyme scheme, if there is one. Does it follow a traditional pattern, or does it do something unique?
Note the language used. Is it quite plain, or does the poet use complex, flowery language?
Try to understand if there are any unique stylistic choices the poet makes. This could be repetition, alliteration, or unusual word choices.

Exploring Imagery and Sound

Spot any similes, metaphors, or personification used. What do they reveal about the theme or tone of the poem?
Look for any patterns of imagery that repeat throughout the poem. What might they suggest?
Pay attention to the sounds of the words when you read the poem aloud. Is there a particular rhythmic pattern or any repeated sounds?
Discover if any onomatopoeia or phonetic intensives have been used. How do they add to the overall impact of the poem?

Contextual Understanding

Background research adds context. Who is the poet? What era did they write in? What is known about their life and values?
Determine how understanding the cultural or historical context informs your reading of the poem.
Discern if there are any references to other works of literature or to historical events. How do these deepen the theme or message of the poem?