How do I analyse the form and structure of a poem?

The form and structure is a critical aspect of any poem, but one which students typically find hard to analyse in a way which is relevant to the question asked. However to ignore this aspect of poetry in an essay would be a huge mistake as there is usually a wealth of information communicated by the way a poet chooses to present his or her poetry. Despite the problems presented by form and structure, there are some simple techniques which can allow better evaluation of the way in which a poem is laid out. 

Is it conventional?

Is the structure of the poem conventional considering the context, the poet's style and the subject matter? If not, what does this say about the content and message of the poem. For example, in Donnes poem “The sun rising” Donne rejects the conventional sonnet structure normally associated with poems about love, which immediately hints towards a more unconventional depiction of the speaker’s feelings. This facilitates the narrative which diverges from the classic glorification of  unrequited love popular in love poetry at the time.

Is it consistent?

Throughout the poem, do aspects such as rhyme scheme, stanza length and metre remain the same or change. If they don’t change, what does this consistency and rigidity of structure add to the poem? If they do, why does the poet choose to do this and how does this affect points at which change occurs? 

How does each aspect of form and structure relate to the content of the poem?

By evaluating the elements of form and structure as working in companion with the poems message, it is much easier to make meaningful comments which relate to the question posed. Examples of this would be things like varied sentence lenths to empahasise certain lines, changes of pace to highlight action or intensity or perhaps the way the choice of,  and adherence to,  meter works to create a relaxed or more formal tone.

These questions allow a deeper analysis of a poems form and structure and prevent the danger of simply listing the characteristics of a poem without making a meaningful evaluation or linking to the question. Being able to confidently analyse form and structure will be a significant strength to poetry essays allowing you to use this to structure your essays and show the examiner your ability from the very start.