How should I approach unseen poetry?

Unseen texts, whether it be prose or poetry, can come across as daunting at times, as without the security of a teacher to help you many may feel as if they're having to handle it alone- however do not let this intimidate you! In fact, it's your own personal reception of the poem which matters the most!

1. Do not let the idea of an unseen text scare you. Take your time and read through it carefully, (more than once if necessary), getting a general idea for the feeling of the poem.

2. Once you feel comfortable with the poem, try to identify its main themes. What is it about? What do you think the poet is trying to get across? How does the poem make you feel as a reader? Identifying the themes of the poem is a pivotal step in developing an argument, and once you have pinpointed the themes you can explore how various literary devices/ techniques reinforce this and create effect.

3. In order to ensure that you're covering a wide range of literary devices and thus hitting top bands for you assessment objectives, try using this mnemonic device: TVFLIRTS

T- themes: identify the main themes of the poem and work them into your essay. V-voice: What is the narrative voice? 1st, 2nd or 3rd person perspective? What effect does this have? Does it create a sense of intimacy or create distance for the reader? Perhaps there's an omniscient narrator? F- form: Does the poem take on a specific form? For example is it a sonnet, a ballad, blank verse, comprised or rhyming couplets? Do you think the poets choice of form has a particular purpose? L- language: Look at the language used. Is it simplistic or complex? what adjectives, adverbs or verbs does the poet use and what effect does this have? Are there any conscious linguistic choices the poet makes to reinforce a specific theme? I- imagery: Does the poet use any imagery, for example metaphors, extended metaphors, similes? What effect does this have and why do you think the poet chose it? How does it make you, as the reader feel? R- rhythm/rhyme: Can you identify a rhyme scheme? Is it consistent or irregular? Does the poet use any internal rhymes? How does the poet make use of punctuation and does this create a particular rhythm? (is it rushed, lethargic, upbeat or melancholic?) What effects does this have? T- tone: Is there an underlying tone in the poem? Do you find it celebratory, mournful, childish or melancholic for example? S- sound devices: Does the poet make use of sound devices such as alliteration, assonance, onomatopoeia? Does this create a particular effect?

4. Once you have tried to identify most of these features, jotting down notes or annotating the poem as you go along, try to gather your thoughts together. Do not underestimate the power of careful planning, as it will guarantee a highly detailed, thought-through and structured response! 5) Finally, do not forget to talk about your own personal opinion when it comes to unseen poetry and texts in general. How you personally respond to the poem is what matters the most, so make sure to stress this throughout any writing tasks you're set in response.

Good Luck!