How to write a poetry comparison

You’re given 1 poem and are asked to compare with another one.

e.g. Explore how negative feelings are presented in Neutral Tones and one other poem

1. Make 2 clear comparative points

Neutral Tones & When we two parted

1. (structure) Both Hardy and Byron discuss the ongoing suffering as a result of a bad break up, and how even over time there sad feelings don’t change

2. (language)Both poets explore the negative feelings of sadness and despair caused by a relationship ending

1. Support with close analysis

have 2-3 quotes for each comparative point for each poem

In (Poem 1), (Poet 1) explores this idea through …

Similarly, in (Poem 2) (Poet 2)

essay structure

intro - main ideas

point 1 - poem 1 analysis + BP → poem 2 analysis + BP

point 2 - poem 1 analysis + BP → poem 2 analysis + BP

conclusion - sum up, link to question, add BP