how to analyze a poem

Alliteration

The repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words, like 'silent sea.'

Assonance

The repetition of vowel sounds within words, such as 'light of the fire.'

Imagery

Vivid descriptions that appeal to the senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, smell).

Metaphor

A comparison between two unlike things without using 'like' or 'as' (e.g., 'Time is a thief').

Simile

A comparison using 'like' or 'as' (e.g., 'Her smile was as bright as the sun').

Personification

Giving human qualities to non-human things (e.g., 'The wind whispered secrets').

Symbolism

Using objects, colors, or elements to represent ideas or themes.

Enjambment

When a sentence or phrase flows over from one line of poetry to the next without a pause.

Meter

The rhythmic structure of lines, often measured in patterns of stressed and unstressed syllables.

Rhyme Scheme

The pattern of rhymes at the end of each line (e.g., ABAB or AABB).

Tone

The poet's attitude or mood conveyed through the poem.

Theme

The central idea or underlying message in the poem.