How do I approach an unseen poem?

First of all you will need to read through the poem to try and understand its literal meaning, take your time and read through again if needed. You will be marked on form, structure and language so now it is a good idea to go through the poem and look for any poetic devices such as similes, sibilance and metaphors (and what effect does this create). Analyse the structure; what is the rhyme scheme? How many stanzas are there? Are all the stanzas the same length? - and what meaning does this create Does the poem have a particular form such as a dramatic monologue or a sonnet? Now you have begun to analyse the poem, you should think about building up an argument for the plan of your answer as this is what will receive top band marks.

MJ
Answered by Marina J. English Literature tutor

3130 Views

See similar English Literature GCSE tutors

Related English Literature GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do I revise for an English exam?


I don't know how to select quotes from the book to use in an essay/exam


In the nineteenth century, Lord Acton wrote that: “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Explore how Margaret Atwood portrays power and control in Cat’s Eye and The Handmaid’s Tale.


What is the difference between language, structure and form in analysis of poetry?


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