what does intent mean for a poem?
Also what does this question mean? What deeper meaning might there be?
Intent is what the poet wanted his readers to see, feel, believe, understand about the poem.
A deeper meaning is understanding what lies beneath the actual words used.
Reread Whitman's "O Captain, My Captain." It's a metaphor for the recently deceased Abraham Lincoln. The ship is the nation and the storm is the Civil War.
In the context of poetry, the term "intent" refers to the purpose or objective that the poet had in mind while writing the poem. It represents the underlying message, emotion, or idea that the poet intended to convey through their words.
To understand the intent of a poem, here's a process you can follow:
1. Read the poem: Start by reading the poem carefully, paying attention to its language, imagery, tone, and structure. Try to grasp the general theme or subject matter.
2. Analyze literary devices: Identify and analyze any literary devices used in the poem, such as metaphors, similes, symbolism, alliteration, or repetition. These devices often offer clues about the poet's intention and meaning.
3. Consider the context: Contextual factors can shed light on the poet's intent. Research the background of the poet, the time period, and any historical or social events that may have influenced the writing.
4. Examine personal experience: Try to connect the poem with the poet's personal experiences, beliefs, or emotions. Often, poets draw inspiration from their own lives, and understanding their perspective can provide insight into their intent.
5. Interpretation: Now, with a comprehensive understanding of the poem's language, literary devices, context, and the poet's background, you can interpret the intent. Ask yourself: What is the poet trying to express? What emotions or ideas are being conveyed? What message is being delivered?
Remember that poetry can be open to multiple interpretations, and different readers may perceive different intents. It is the beauty of poetic expression that allows for various meanings to arise from the same piece of writing.