How do I spot literary techniques in poetry?

Firstly, I would recommend reading the piece of poetry out loud to yourself and ask yourself the following questions; are there any lines or phrases that stand out to you? Are there any phrases or words that you find yourself placing more emphasis on? What about the speed of the poem? Is it fast or slow, or does it change?

Secondly, I would grab a highlighter and highlight all the bits of the poem that you find interesting. Then look closely at them, how do you think the effect has been created? Are there any letters or sounds repeated? Can you work out the rhyme scheme? Any adjectives or imagery that you find striking?

However, examiners or essay markers are not interested in a checklist of literary techniques. They want to see that you can use the relevant evidence to back up your argument. You may see ten literary techniques in an extract but only use five or six in your answer.

KO
Answered by Kate O. English tutor

1882 Views

See similar English A Level tutors

Related English A Level answers

All answers ▸

Discuss how Maya Angelou presents the theme of freedom, or lack thereof, in her poem 'The Caged Bird'


Explore the purposes of the frame narrative technique in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.


To what extent do you agree that Faustus is the Gothic victim, rather than the Gothic villain in Christopher Marlowe's play 'Doctor Faustus'?


Explore how Williams presents old and new ideas in ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’. You must relate your discussion to relevant contextual factors.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences