How should I analyse language?

Picking out any language devices such as a metaphor or simile can be helpful when it comes to analysing language. After recognising a device state a reason as to why it was being used, taking into account the context of the writing around it and the general narrative of the text. I would suggest avoiding the phrase 'it makes the reader want to read on' as it could imply a lack of understanding. The main question you want to answer when analysing language is why the writer uses the words and phrases they do.