How do I tackle an unseen poetry question?

When it comes to unseen poetry there are many ways to approach the analysis. To begin with it is always best to read it, not once but twice, making sure to underline/note themes, imagery, symbolism and other points of interest. 

After you kind of have a good idea of what the poet is trying to convey in the poem, a good technique to use is the P.E.E. 

P-oint --> What is the point you're trying to make?

E-vidence --> What line(s) in the poem back up your point? Why?

E-xplain --> How? What effect(s) does it create?

Ultimately, in the exam situation you will obviously be under time constraints. However, fret not, utilising said system alongside an essay plan will help you construct a detailed analysis that will impress any examiner. 

Answered by Nishad R. English tutor

2522 Views

See similar English A Level tutors

Related English A Level answers

All answers ▸

What narrative methods can you see in this piece?


What is the form of a poem?


'There's nothing but our own red blood / Can make a right Rose Tree'. Discuss the ways in which Yeats presents ideas about Irish identity in Lyrical Poems. In your answer explore the effects of language, imagery and verse form.


How do I analyse my A level texts effectively?


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 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy