1. Analyzing Poetry

2. Step One:  Number the lines and stanzas A stanza is a group of lines within a poem.

3. Step Two:  Identify and define any words that you do not know.  A good website is the merriam-webster dictionary or dictionary.com

4. Step Three:  Is there a rhyme scheme or is it free verse?  Free Verse- The poem does not rhyme.  Rhyme Scheme- the pattern of rhymes at the end of each line of a poem or song.

5. Step Four:  Identify any figurative language and imagery.  Similes  Hyperbole  Alliteration  Metaphor  Personification  Onomatopoeia  Oxymoron  Repetition

6. Step Five:  Break down the poem stanza by stanza. What is the deeper meaning?  Who is the author, and what is the meaning he is trying to get across?  What tense is written in and from what point of view?  What is the mood and tone of the poem?  Who is the speaker?  Is there any symbolism?