A guide to poetry techniques
Types of poems
Writing a response to a poem requires you to analyse the poem and argue its merit, through analysing its forms and features.
Writing a Response to a Poem
How to read and take notes on a Poem:
Paragraph 1 (4-6 sentences)
T - State clearly what the Poem is about- the message or theme of the poem.
E - Explain in more detail what this poem is saying (link your discussion to the question) and how it is reflected in the overall structure and style of the poem. Make references to the overall style of the poem, ie is it a dramatic monologue/ extended metaphor/ use of particular imagery etc. No analysis here, just overall comments.
Paragraphs 2, 3, 4 and so on…
Examine the Poem in Chronological order. Break the poem into 3 sections:
E - Beginning: look at 2-3 techniques that are used in the beginning to establish the idea/mood/atmosphere. Analyse and discuss their effect on the poem’s meaning
Use words/ phrases such as: establishes
Creates
introduces
begins with
opens with
L - Link the effect to the poem’s point/ question
E - Middle: look at 2-3 techniques that are used in the middle to develop the idea/mood/atmosphere. Analyse and discuss their effect on the poem’s meaning
Use words/ phrases such as: Further
Develops
continues
extends
builds on
consolidates
adds to
L - Link the effect to the poem’s point/ question
E - End: look at 2-3 techniques that are used at the end of the poem to conclude the idea/mood/atmosphere. Analyse and discuss their effect on the poem’s meaning
Use words/ phrases such as: concludes
leaves us with
finally
closes with
ends with
L - Link the effect to the poem’s point/ question