Discussion Board

Poetry Analysis & TWIST Appoach

POETRY ANALYSIS & TWIST APPROACH

Analyzing a poem can seem challenging, but if you follow this simple analytical approach, you will find that poetry analysis is actually not as intimidating as it seems. Embedded in the TWIST analysis below, are powerpoints that explain specific concepts listed.

T- Tone:

What is the attitude of the speaker? Pay attention to the specific word choice that the author uses to convey attitude. Identify specific areas in the poem as textual evidence of your claim.

W- Word Choice:

Is the speaker angry, joyful, or depressed? What specific word choice demonstrates that? Is there a contrast of words? Look for words that have negative or positive connotations that demonstrate the speaker’s tone. Identify specific areas in the poem as textual evidence of your claim.

I- Imagery:

What picture is being painted here? How does the speaker convey the senses (sights, sounds, taste, touch/feeling, smell)? What word choice creates an image that allows the reader to see, hear, taste, feel, smell what is happening in the poem? Does the speaker use metaphor or simile to paint the image? Identify specific areas in the poem as textual evidence of your claim.

S- Style:

What literary devices are used? (Think about personification, metaphor, alliteration, assonance, etc.). Is there a rhyme scheme? Is there a pattern or repetition in the poem? When considering the style, consider what the poem is NOT in order to highlight what the poem is. Identify specific areas in the poem as textual evidence of your claim.

T- Theme:

Where is there evidence of the theme? Are there specific lines that demonstrate a theme or pieces and parts that work together to convey the theme? Identify specific areas in the poem as textual evidence of your claim.

Helpful Hints - Poetry Analysis:

How do I cite poetry?

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· Refer to the MLA Citations PPT in the Essay Resources page

How do I refer to people when writing a poetry analysis?

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· Refer to the person conveying the poem as the speaker (ex: “The speaker demonstrates joy when…”).

· When referring to a technique the author uses, refer to the author directly (ex: “Author X specifically uses imagery to allow the reader to feel…”)

Is there an example of a TWIST analysis on a poem that we have read?

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· Yes! Click here (Links to an external site.)