1. How to explode a poem!

2. 1. Look at the poem’s title – what might this poem be about? 2. Read the poem straight through without stopping to analyse it (aloud if possible) This will help you get a sense of how it sounds and how it works.

3. How to explode a poem 3. Look for patterns. Watch for repeated, interesting or even unfamiliar use of language, imagery (mind pictures), sound. Ask “What is the poet trying to show through this pattern?” 4. Identify the narrator. Ask “Who is speaking in the poem?

4. How to explode a poem 5. Make sure you understand what all the words mean. Use a dictionary if needed. 6. Pay attention to breaks between stanzas or between lines and think why the poet has done this.

5. How to explode a poem! 7. Try to think why the poet has written the poem? Is the poetry trying to teach you something, persuade you, move you entertain you? 8. What is your personal response to the poem? Do you think the poem is effective? Why?