The Analysis Pyramid
When reading a poem, it is important to remember the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
You will have to read it multiple times. Read it according to punctuation, not just “line-by-line.” If you can, it might help to read it aloud.
The first time you read it, paraphrase each line in your own words on a literal level. Write what each line (including the title) means. You can worry about their
deeper meaning later.
Use the Analysis Pyramid to dissect the poem. Start at the top with “Words/Phrases.” Read the poem, and underline words/phrases that stand out to you. Then,
write down why they stand out to you. Read the poem a second time. This time, focus on level 2 – “Tone/Language.” Continue reading and annotating the poem
for each level on the Analysis Pyramid.
Yes, this means that you will read the poem 6 times…each time you will focus on a different aspect of the poem.
ANNOTATE, ANNOTATE, ANNOTATE!! Do this as you move through each level on the Analysis Pyramid. The poem should have notes written all over it!
Once you have read the poem and considered all aspects of the Analysis Pyramid, think about the title. What does it mean on an interpretive level?
1. Words/Phrases – What
words/phrases standout to you? Why?
2. Tone/Language – How does the author feel
about the subject of them poem? How do you
know?
3. Craft Elements – What literary devices (figurative language,
imagery, poetic devices, etc.) do you notice? What do they
mean?
4. Structure – How is the poem organized? How do you know?
5. Theme – What is the poem about (subject – love, death, etc.) and what is the
poet saying about the subject?