So, Sam has filled you in on the basics, now for some more in depth study. When citing how effective a poem is there are many more aspects to consider.
1) Figurative language or images; simile, metaphor or alliteration. Say why you find these particular words or images vivid, effective or striking.
2) Rhythm; Is it; Strong and even? Close to the rhythm of speech? Unobtrusive? Flowing? Variable? If it contrasts, what is the effect? Does it appeal to the ear? If a poem flows well it often puts the reader in a more comfortable state than a jerky, uneven rhythm. Often an author specifically chooses the rhythm to suit the meaning of the poem. A war ballad may be start flowing easy but degenerate into a broken rhythm to imitate gunfire or draw out the tension or emotion in the scene.
3) Rhyme; Does this poem rhyme and if so does it add to the effectiveness of the poem? Is it obvious or subtle? Does it always rhyme or only sometimes? Is this rhyming appropriate for the poem? It can be used to compliment the mood of a poem or it can be used to distract from the meaning of the poem. Rhyming often makes it seem less serious or more distant from reality. Rhyming also takes us back to the good ol' days when all poems rhymed, in other words, it creates nostalgia for the reader.
4) Visual Appeal; Does the visual image the poem creates add to its effect? Does it contain colours, movements, sounds, smells? Do any other descriptions jump out at you and create a clear picture in your mind? Do any of them support the meaning of your poem? This is extremely important as most writers will appeal to all senses.
5) Tone and Mood; What is the atmosphere created? What does the author’s attitude appear to be on the subject? Do either of these change? Nostalgia, anger, bitterness, joy, envy and other emotive language can be used here. This is all up to your interpretation and as long as you can back up your opinion you are right.
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