Critically comment on the language of the poem.

Diction and Lexical Choices

Diction refers to the poet’s choice of words. A critical analysis would examine the level of formality (formal, informal, colloquial), the connotations of words (positive, negative, neutral), and the use of specific word classes (nouns, verbs, adjectives). Consider whether the poet employs abstract or concrete language, and the impact of these choices. For example, a poem dealing with grief might utilize abstract nouns like ‘sorrow’ and ‘loss’, while a poem celebrating nature might favor concrete nouns like ‘tree’, ‘river’, and ‘sun’. The use of archaic or neologistic words should also be noted.

Imagery and Figurative Language

Imagery is the use of descriptive language to create vivid mental pictures. A critical commentary would identify the types of imagery used (visual, auditory, olfactory, tactile, gustatory) and analyze their effect. Figurative language, such as metaphors, similes, personification, and metonymy, should be closely examined. Consider the originality and effectiveness of these figures of speech. For instance, a metaphor comparing life to a journey can reveal the poet’s perspective on the human experience. The extended metaphor, where a comparison is sustained throughout the poem, is particularly significant.

Sound Devices

The sound of a poem is crucial to its effect. Analyze the use of rhyme scheme (if any), alliteration, assonance, consonance, and onomatopoeia. Consider how these devices contribute to the poem’s rhythm and musicality. For example, alliteration can create a sense of emphasis or unity, while assonance can create a sense of flow and harmony. The use of cacophony (harsh sounds) versus euphony (pleasant sounds) can also be significant.

Syntax and Sentence Structure

Syntax refers to the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences. A critical analysis would examine the length and complexity of sentences, the use of punctuation, and the presence of any unusual syntactic structures (e.g., inversions, ellipses). Consider how the syntax affects the poem’s pace and rhythm. For example, short, choppy sentences can create a sense of urgency or tension, while long, flowing sentences can create a sense of calm or contemplation. The use of enjambment (the continuation of a sentence from one line to the next) can also be analyzed.

Tone and Mood

Tone refers to the poet’s attitude towards the subject matter, while mood refers to the emotional atmosphere created by the poem. Analyze how the linguistic features discussed above contribute to the poem’s tone and mood. For example, the use of negative diction and harsh sounds can create a tone of despair and a mood of gloom. The use of positive diction and harmonious sounds can create a tone of optimism and a mood of joy.

Structure and Form

The poem’s structure (e.g., sonnet, ballad, free verse) and form (e.g., stanza length, rhyme scheme) also influence its language. Analyze how the poet uses these formal elements to shape the meaning and effect of the poem. For example, a sonnet’s strict rhyme scheme and meter can create a sense of order and control, while free verse’s lack of formal constraints can create a sense of freedom and spontaneity.

Linguistic Feature	Analytical Question	Potential Effect
Diction	What kind of words does the poet use? Are they formal or informal? Concrete or abstract?	Creates tone, establishes mood, reveals character, emphasizes themes.
Imagery	What images does the poet create? What senses do they appeal to?	Evokes emotions, creates vivid mental pictures, enhances understanding.
Sound Devices	How does the poem sound? What sound devices are used?	Creates rhythm, emphasizes words, enhances musicality, reinforces meaning.
Syntax	How are the sentences structured? Are they long or short? Complex or simple?	Affects pace, creates emphasis, reveals the poet’s thought process.