You can also see whether it looks like the last poem you read by the same poet or even a poem by another poet. All of these are good qualities to notice, and they may lead you to a better understanding of the poem in the end. But sooner or later, you’re

Use the guidelines below to learn how to read a poem and understand it. Read with a pencil Examine the basic subject of the poem Consider the context of the poem Study the form of the poem Look at the word choice of the poem Finishing Up Read with a penci

To read poetry, start by quickly scanning the poem to determine how it's structured and whether the author used a specific rhyme scheme or meter. Then, slowly read the poem at least twice, and try to pick up on more of the meaning with each reading.