In this discussion, you'll reflect on the reading strategies you used while reading this lesson's poems (and which are useful for poetry in general). More specifically, you'll think about the process by which you select a reading strategy to help you comprehend poetry.

Let's examine one of your classmate's posts.

The reading strategy I use changes from poem to poem, but one thing I've found that's easy for me to do is making text-to-self connections. I think that's because the speakers of poems aren't often named, so it's easy to step into their shoes and imagine myself as the speaker.

What are some strategies you use when reading poetry?
What do you look for in poems to increase your comprehension? Post a reply to two of your classmates' strategies.

One strategy I use when reading poetry is to pay attention to the imagery and figurative language used by the poet. I find that this helps me to get a better understanding of the emotions and ideas the poet is trying to convey. By analyzing the use of metaphors, similes, and descriptive language, I am able to engage more deeply with the poem and make connections with the themes or topic being explored.

Another strategy I use is to read the poem multiple times. Sometimes, the meaning of a poem is not immediately clear upon the first reading. By reading it again and again, I am able to pick up on the subtleties, nuances, and underlying themes that might have been missed initially. This also allows me to appreciate the musicality and rhythm of the poem, which can enhance my overall comprehension and enjoyment.

When reading poetry, I often look for recurring motifs or symbols that appear throughout the poem. These can provide clues about the underlying meaning or message being conveyed. Additionally, I pay attention to the structure and form of the poem, such as the use of stanzas, line breaks, and punctuation. These elements can contribute to the overall meaning and impact of the poem.

Reply to classmate 1:
I really like your strategy of making text-to-self connections when reading poetry. It's a great way to personalize the poem and find points of relatability. By stepping into the shoes of the speaker, you can better understand their perspective and experiences, which can greatly enhance your comprehension. I will definitely try incorporating this strategy in my own reading of poetry.

Reply to classmate 2:
Your strategy of paying attention to the imagery and figurative language used in poetry is spot on. The use of vivid and descriptive language can really bring a poem to life and allow the reader to visualize and experience what the poet is expressing. It also helps to create a deeper emotional connection with the poem. I will definitely continue to focus on this aspect when reading poetry in the future.