How do I begin to analyse a poem?

When looking at a poem for the first time it is important to make a note of a number of structural and linguistic points. Firstly, you may wish to look at the structure which can involve identifying the number of stanzas, the length of verses and a rhyme scheme. Secondly, imagery, specific lexical choices and linguistic devices such as onomatopoeia, alliteration or metaphors are often key components which will help you to unlock both the superficial and underlying meanings to the poem before you.