How to Analyze a Poem
Analyzing poems is one of the easiest and most interesting things to do in the English Language. It helps you learn the meaning as well as the underlying theme of why the poem was written. But do not worry, if you don’t know how to analyze a poem, then let us help you with that. There are a few steps you will have to follow for analyzing a poem. The first step is to read the poem carefully, first silently then loudly. This will help you in gathering the first impression of the poem. The next step is to underline all the difficult words that might be unclear while you are reading the poem. Make a point to take a look at the title carefully, as it often has many important clues as to what the poet might be hinting at. Then understand the tone and mood of the poet, there are words in poetry that directly hint at what the poet might be feeling while he was writing the poem. This is when you start paraphrasing. Understand that are always two meanings behind the poem, the literal and figurative meanings, and make sure that while you are paraphrasing the poem, you understand both the meanings!
Casey at the Bat
The outlook wasn't brilliant for the Mudville nine that day: The score stood four to two, with but one inning more to play, And then when Cooney died at first, and Barrows did the same, A pall-like silence fell upon the patrons of the game.
