descriptive essay on a poem

Poems & Poets

Learning Image and Description

Opening the luminous door in your writing..

BY Rachel Richardson

In order to imagine, we begin with an image. The imagination gets triggered by images and descriptions when we read, making us feel as though we are in the scene. You can think of imagery as an entryway into a poem: a physical realm allowing us to explore the mind of the poet. The images and descriptions also make up the stuff of the poem: the surprising, sumptuous, practical, and impractical items (such as shorts, some sunscreen, that elm tree, and your grandmother’s pearl earrings) packed within. A reader’s interaction with a poem is largely created through the collection of images that animate the language and make us feel we have just participated in an experience.

Images are everywhere in writing, and my introduction is no exception. It’s hard to define an image without using one in the process. While writing this essay I have become hyper-aware that most of the words I use to define image are, in fact, saddled with the physical themselves. Think of it: I just wrote transport, triggered, entryway, packed, and saddled! The physical world and senses are both at the core of our human experience, so imagery and description are often a central aspect of poetry, even in those poems that aim to describe what cannot be seen, such as thoughts and emotions.

It makes sense, then, that if you want to write poems that are engaging and lively, you should start with learning how to craft an image and to develop your skills of description. Many poetry instructors teach about imagery and description in the first weeks of their poetry courses, if not in the very first class. Not only is imagery everywhere in our lives, it is a wonderful way to start writing poetry: you can focus on something concrete that you can describe, rather than jumping right into the more complicated work of writing about emotions or ideas. Here’s an easy way in: start by writing about what’s on your desk, or a tree outside your window, or your father’s beard. With a low-stakes writing exercise like this, you can practice the craft of trying to render the world to a reader in all its sensory richness.

A Few Ways to Begin

The poetic definition of the term image is broader than our everyday one, and this is important to emphasize: the poetic image is not just visual but an activation of any of the five senses. Although in our highly visual culture we tend to think of the visual by default, in fact some of the most evocative imagery engages the nose, the ear, the sense of touch or taste.

Another way teachers often present this subject is to discuss the appeal of showing (as opposed to telling or explaining) the object at hand. Again, in using the word “show” we are limited by the language of our culture—showing seems to refer to sight, but can also encompass other senses. In a poem one can show the sound of the neighbor’s cough, or the feel of the cotton of a lover’s shirt against the speaker’s face, or the smell of the pond in a Vermont town in winter. You can start by listing such sensory evocations, to become more aware of the imagery you come into contact with every day, as well as the images contained in, or as, your memories. Try this preliminary two-part exercise:

1. Sit in a public space for at least 30 minutes. Choose a place others are passing through (a school quadrangle, coffee shop, library, bus stop, etc.). Try to observe, using all five senses, what is happening around you. Record, in list form and in as much detail as possible, at least 20 different images that catch your attention. 2. Then, spending at least 30 minutes on your own in a quiet space, go inward. Think of strong sensory memories and try to capture—again in list form, and without worrying about providing explanatory context for a reader—those memories in language, conveying the strongest sensory details.

To take imagery deeper, and explore its potential for catalyzing new poems, you could expand upon the observation exercise above. For example, try taking one image from your observation and writing a page about it, not limiting yourself to what you see and hear and smell directly anymore, but allowing the sensory input to spark other thoughts, memories, images, story, and emotional weight. Robert Pinsky ’s “ Shirt ” seems to do just this, beginning as it does with a physical examination of how a shirt is made: “The back, the yoke, the yardage. Lapped seams, / The nearly invisible stitches along the collar …” We imagine the writer may actually be looking at a shirt as he begins writing this. But then the imagination takes over, and the shirt’s journey comes to life: “the collar / Turned in a sweatshop by Koreans or Malaysians / Gossiping over tea and noodles on their break.” By line 10 of the poem we are in the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in 1911. Then a jaunt through Scotland, and finally the modern-day factory in South Carolina where this shirt has received its inspection by someone named Irma (a detail we presume the speaker knew from finding the inspection sticker on the inside of the fabric). The poem takes us on a high-speed, higher-intensity whirl through history, reimagining its scenes, and ends back where it started, in close examination of this shirt’s physical features, but with new import: “the buttons of simulated bone, / the buttonholes, the sizing, the facing, the characters / Printed in black on neckband and tail.”

To continue with the clothing theme, we might also look at Kim Addonizio ’s “‘ What Do Women Want? ’” This poem launches its meditation from the subject of a red dress. The dress is a fantasy, we quickly see, so Addonizio’s speaker is not physically handling it as Pinsky’s speaker does. Instead, she describes the feel of it, and feel in it: “I want it sleeveless and backless, / this dress, so no one has to guess / what’s underneath.” From here the speaker imagines she is wearing it, walking through her urban neighborhood, newly attuned to all the other details around her because of the attention she attracts in this radiant dress:

past Mr. and Mrs. Wong selling day-old donuts in their café, past the Guerra brothers slinging pigs from the truck and onto the dolly, hoisting the slick snouts over their shoulders.

Once we start focusing on the richness of the description here, we see images within images. This poem can help us to understand how an image potentially launches a poem into the world of the imagination. Addonizio’s lush, energetic portraiture also shows us how images breed images and images breed ideas. She started with one concrete and finite thing—that red dress. But by the time we’ve caught our breath, the poem has expanded exponentially in time, object, and space: she sees a whole human lifespan, and an intricate and bustling urban landscape. What is the central image of this poem? First it seems to be the dress, then the speaker’s imagined vision of herself in the dress, then perhaps the bird’s-eye view of the scene in the neighborhood as a whole. And further, which parts are details—additions, helpful but not central—and which are images? There may be multiple answers to these questions, depending on the reader’s interpretation of the poem.

Some Background

Poets have, at different cultural moments, taken particular interest in defining image and its use in the poem. In the early 20th century, Ezra Pound and Amy Lowell became the (often warring) figureheads for the Imagist movement, a loose group of poets who rejected the sentimentality of the Romantic and Victorian periods and called for a return to economy of language and precision of image. Their general philosophy is seen as the catalyst for Modernism .

In his prescriptive essay, “ A Few Don’ts by an Imagiste ,” Pound defined the image as “that which presents an intellectual and emotional complex in an instant of time.” He went on to say that this “complex” should provoke the feeling of freedom, or sudden growth, such as we experience in looking at great works of art. The image itself, he argued, is the proper and adequate symbol , and is dulled by abstract language. In privileging the image as the central element of the poem, Pound referred to the excavation of the object in poetry as finding and employing its “luminous details.” The luminous details are those details that reveal and transmit an image most swiftly and deeply. “Use either no ornament or good ornament,” Pound further warned, underscoring his advice to find the most compelling, revealing words for the descriptive task rather than simply showing everything . In other words, the task of writing a descriptive poem is not akin to that of a camera panning across a scene. The mind of the poet acts as a filter, finding the most resonant, charged details to transmit the image to the reader.

The Imagists’ ideas about imagery and description continue to deeply influence contemporary poetry. Those associated with the Imagist movement included H.D ., William Carlos Williams , Ford Madox Ford , D.H. Lawrence , James Joyce , and Marianne Moore . Williams’s “ The Red Wheelbarrow ,” H.D.’s “ The Sea Iris ,” and Moore’s “The Fish” all provide excellent examples of how focus on the single image and finding its “luminous details” can provide great satisfaction, even revelation, for the reader.

Definitions and Some Excavation Exercises

Image deepens, activates, invokes, invites. All of these verbs suggest that images serve to bring readers somewhere; images move us and move poems forward. They’re hard to define in isolation because they don’t sit still. Take a look at Rick Barot ’s poem “ The Wooden Overcoat ” to listen in on another poet wrestling with how to define imagery. He offers, by way of example,

If the dandelion on the sidewalk is mere detail, the dandelion inked on a friend’s bicep is an image because it moves when her body does, even when a shirt covers the little thorny black sun on a thin stalk.

The whole poem considers, in a lovely and intimate way, what makes an image, and why it moves us.

On top of that, we have the credo “No ideas but in things,” as William Carlos Williams famously proclaimed. Those of us who don’t identify ourselves as fully belonging to the Imagist school might soften the strength of that statement, but ultimately come to a similar point: the image helps reveal ideas, both in the poems and to the writer herself.

Ultimately, we might say that the close study of imagery is a way to escape, transcend, or recontextualize the self. This is a helpful entry point—an open door, to use an image—for those new to the craft of poetry. It welcomes you and your perspectives, and focuses you on the physical world around you, offering far more subjects and angles of approach than you dreamed you had.

To begin to excavate these subjects more deeply, try to “trace” an image poem you admire. A trace is an act of imitation in which you choose your own subject (locale, weather, objects, etc.) and then apply it to the master poem, in effect rewriting the poem with different objects. Try to adhere as closely as possible to the author’s use of the parts of speech, sentence structure, and every other stylistic element of the master poem. Some poems that might give you great results include “ Little Exercise ” by Elizabeth Bishop , “Fiesta Melons” by Sylvia Plath , “ Piano ” by D.H. Lawrence, and “ Devon House ” by C. Dale Young .

For example, you read Bishop’s poem, which begins, “Think of the storm roaming the sky uneasily / like a dog looking for a place to sleep in, / listen to it growling.” As the tracer, then, you may decide to describe a quiet snowfall instead; you would begin with “Think of the snow …”—but then what verb? “Roaming” is such an evocative word, suggesting the impending dramatic weather, the unease seeming so present in the sky itself. For snow this impending feeling will be different. Perhaps you decide on “Think of the snow congregating in the sky silently.” Then you must figure out a new image that this sky suggests, a metaphor to parallel Bishop’s stray dog. What will you use?

To attempt to rewrite a poem this way is hugely instructive because it shows us, firstly, the skill involved in the master poem: that to describe anything well, even a seemingly simple thing like a storm or a melon, is immensely difficult and requires great precision of observation and language. Secondly, the act of tracing can help you see the many ways poets use to describe; it shows you many of the tools you might like to employ yourself.

Launching from Image into Device and Technique

A central distinction that teachers will make when discussing image—one that we have already encountered numerous times in the poems we’ve discussed above—is that of literal and figurative language. If we say that literal description relies on careful physical observation, figurative description allows for the imagination to take the reins. For the poem to work well, the observation should be just as clear and precise when presented figuratively (think again of Bishop’s storm as a growling dog) as when presented literally (the storm roaming the sky). Even here, in the literal moment of the poem, “roaming” might be called mild personification , which makes the point that the literal and figurative are not hard barriers, and poets often move about freely between them within a poem, and even within a line.

To look at the difference created by the focus on the literal image versus the figurative, try pairing Tess Taylor ’s “ Elk at Tomales Bay ” with Sylvia Plath’s “ You’re .” These are strikingly different poems in almost every way but, at their core, both attempt to direct sharp focus on a single object. In Taylor’s case, that object is a tule elk skeleton, and in Plath’s, it is a developing fetus. Taylor’s poem edges into figurative language at moments, but is grounded in the literal:

Ribs fanned open hollow, emptied of organs. In the bushes its skull. Sockets and sinuses, mandible, its few small teeth.

Contrast that to Plath’s breathless series of figurative descriptors for this unborn and already-loved “you”:

Wrapped up in yourself like a spool Trawling your dark as owls do. Mute as a turnip from the Fourth of July to All Fools’ Day, O high-riser, my little loaf.

How do the different types of image used help to develop the tones of these poems? How do they present the objects being described? When you read each of these poems, do you find your attention drawn to particular elements of description? How are the language choices focusing your attention and encouraging you to make associations within the poem? Try to think like the poet: how do the choices of image help to develop the overall emotional feel of the poem?

To look at another poem that attempts to freshly present a landscape, check out Jamaal May ’s “ There Are Birds Here .” This poem pointedly addresses not just the place itself, but how the poet’s use of image attempts to shape the reader’s perception of that place. This is a poem about the use of images as much as it is a poem that uses images. The setting in this poem is the city of Detroit, and the speaker is frustrated with how readers resist registering the image presented (that there are birds there) because of their stubborn expectation of a different reality (that there must not be birds in this blighted city). But this is all the more reason to keep insisting upon his image. He says, of Detroit,

The birds are here to root around for bread the girl’s hands tear and toss like confetti. No, I don’t mean the bread is torn like cotton, I said confetti, and no not the confetti a tank can make of a building. I mean the confetti a boy can’t stop smiling about and no his smile isn’t much like a skeleton at all. And no his neighborhood is not like a war zone.

The defense of the image in this poem—there are birds here, he repeats—serves as a reminder of the extent to which imagery can shape how the reader/listener/viewer understands and responds. In this case, the speaker seems dismayed that the reader already has a bunch of preconceived images of his city as a war zone, which are ingrained and hard to shake loose, even with his insistent showing of a joyful, beautiful place. This is a lesson for politics and for writers of poetry: a reminder to present with accuracy and integrity and force, recognizing what we can be up against in doing so.

The poems we have just explored will help you hone your sensory faculties on the physical environment. Now that you are paying attention to the types of images poets choose—whether literal or figurative, and which senses get activated in the imagery—you might think also about how these images do this work. Do they make music together? A percussive rhythm , an alliterative lull, an onomatopoetic evocation? Do they show by synecdoche , personification , hyperbole ? It can be fun to explore your many style options here, thinking about how such choices of device change the way the image is perceived. Try some of these quick exercises to broaden your descriptive range and help you discover which modes you like best.

1. Describe a place using a repeated phrase as a refrain (such as “there are birds here”). 2. Describe a person using only non-human metaphors (similar to Plath’s approach in “You’re”). 3. Describe a landscape you know well in a long string of images, literal or figurative, and try to make some of them rhyme . 4. Take a couple of the descriptions you liked best in one of the first three exercises and write them down on a new sheet of paper. Then try to build on them with alliterative description. Make a paragraph/list/bunch of lines that feels pleasurable to say and evokes some cohesive mood, even if it doesn’t mean a lot logically. 5. Describe one very small physical part of a landscape—say, a barn, rather than a whole Nebraska plain—in great physical detail. Try to imbue the small object, through as many senses as possible, with the feeling of the whole locale.

Further Reading

Now that you’re focused on images, look at any poem you love, and the sensory qualities of the language will bloom on the page. To generate your own writing exercises and inspire fresh writing, here are over a dozen poems that I’ve used and admired. This list, of course, could be expanded exponentially.

                Jericho Brown , “ Hustle ”                 Jennifer Chang , “ Pastoral ”                 Mark Doty , “ A Display of Mackerel ”                 Claudia Emerson , “ Metastasis: Worry-Moth ”                 Matthea Harvey , “ Gradations of Blue ”                 Sarah Lindsay , “ Elegy for the Quagga ”                Amy Lowell, “ The Blue Scarf ”                 Edna St. Vincent Millay , “ Rendezvous ”                Ezra Pound, “ In a Station of the Metro ”                 Roger Reeves , “ Cymothoa Exigua ”                 Bruce Snider , “ Afterlife ”                 C.D. Wright , “ More Blues and the Abstract Truth ”                 Charles Wright , “ Chickamauga "

The stories and poems we cherish most are the ones that either transport us to new places or make us see ordinary things in a new way. As I wrote at the beginning of this article, a reader’s interaction with a poem is created largely through the collection of images that animate the language and make us feel we have just participated in an experience. Now that you’re equipped with different approaches to image-making, be sure to try using images in new and different ways, challenging your own abilities and imagination. The best thing about imagery is that it often shows you, the poet, as much about your subject as it does the reader. Images breed images, and images breed ideas. Let yourself experiment with the possibilities. Be wild, be daring, be alert to your sensory perceptions, and you will find a rich world beyond that wide-flung door.

Poet Rachel Richardson was born and raised in Berkeley, California. She is the author of the poetry collections Copperhead (2011) and Hundred-Year Wave (2016). Her poetry investigates the disjunctions of remembered and recorded history. Discussing the overlap between her method of poetic composition and her graduate studies in ethnography, Richardson has noted, “There’s a lot to be taken from the ...

Poetry Explained

How to Write a Poetry Essay (Complete Guide)

Unlock success in poetry essays with our comprehensive guide. Uncover the process to help aid understanding of how best to create a poetry essay.

While many of us read poetry for pleasure, it is undeniable that many poetry readers do so in the knowledge that they will be assessed on the text they are reading, either in an exam, for homework, or for a piece of coursework. This is clearly a daunting task for many, and lots of students don’t even know where to begin. We’re here to help! This guide will take you through all the necessary steps so that you can plan and write great poetry essays every time. If you’re still getting to grips with the different techniques, terms, or some other aspect of poetry, then check out our other available resources at the bottom of this page.

This Guide was Created by Joe Samantaria

Degree in English and Related Literature, and a Masters in Irish Literature

Upon completion of his degrees, Joe is an English tutor and counts W.B. Yeats , Emily Brontë , and Federico Garcia Lorca among his favorite poets. He has helped tutor hundreds of students with poetry and aims to do the same for readers and Poetry + users on Poem Analysis.

How to Write a Poetry Essay

• 1 Before You Start…
• 2 Introductions
• 3 Main Paragraphs
• 4 Conclusions
• 6 Other Resources

Before You Start…

Before we begin, we must address the fact that all poetry essays are different from one another on account of different academic levels, whether or not the essay pertains to one poem or multiple, and the intended length of the essay. That is before we even contend with the countless variations and distinctions between individual poems. Thus, it is impossible to produce a single, one-size-fits-all template for writing great essays on poetry because the criteria for such an essay are not universal. This guide is, therefore, designed to help you go about writing a simple essay on a single poem, which comes to roughly 1000-1200 words in length. We have designed it this way to mirror the requirements of as many students around the world as possible. It is our intention to write another guide on how to write a comparative poetry essay at a later date. Finally, we would like to stress the fact that this guide is exactly that: a guide. It is not a set of restrictive rules but rather a means of helping you get to grips with writing poetry essays. Think of it more like a recipe that, once practiced a few times, can be modified and adapted as you see fit.

The first and most obvious starting point is the poem itself and there are some important things to do at this stage before you even begin contemplating writing your essay. Naturally, these things will depend on the nature of the essay you are required to write.

• Is the poem one you are familiar with?
• Do you know anything about the context of the poem or the poet?
• How much time do you have to complete the essay?
• Do you have access to books or the internet?

These questions matter because they will determine the type, length, and scope of the essay you write. Naturally, an essay written under timed conditions about an unfamiliar poem will look very different from one written about a poem known to you. Likewise, teachers and examiners will expect different things from these essays and will mark them accordingly.

As this article pertains to writing a poverty essay, we’re going to assume you have a grasp of the basics of understanding the poems themselves. There is a plethora of materials available that can help you analyze poetry if you need to, and thousands of analyzed poems are available right here. For the sake of clarity, we advise you to use these tools to help you get to grips with the poem you intend to write about before you ever sit down to actually produce an essay. As we have said, the amount of time spent pondering the poem will depend on the context of the essay. If you are writing a coursework-style question over many weeks, then you should spend hours analyzing the poem and reading extensively about its context. If, however, you are writing an essay in an exam on a poem you have never seen before, you should perhaps take 10-15% of the allotted time analyzing the poem before you start writing.

The Question

Once you have spent enough time analyzing the poem and identifying its key features and themes, you can turn your attention to the question. It is highly unlikely that you will simply be asked to “analyze this poem.” That would be too simple on the one hand and far too broad on the other.

More likely, you will be asked to analyze a particular aspect of the poem, usually pertaining to its message, themes, or meaning. There are numerous ways examiners can express these questions, so we have outlined some common types of questions below.

• Explore the poet’s presentation of…
• How does the poet present…
• Explore the ways the writer portrays their thoughts about…

These are all similar ways of achieving the same result. In each case, the examiner requires that you analyze the devices used by the poet and attempt to tie the effect those devices have to the poet’s broader intentions or meaning.

Some students prefer reading the question before they read the poem, so they can better focus their analytical eye on devices and features that directly relate to the question they are being asked. This approach has its merits, especially for poems that you have not previously seen. However, be wary of focusing too much on a single element of a poem, particularly if it is one you may be asked to write about again in a later exam. It is no good knowing only how a poem links to the theme of revenge if you will later be asked to explore its presentation of time.

Essay plans can help focus students’ attention when they’re under pressure and give them a degree of confidence while they’re writing. In basic terms, a plan needs the following elements:

• An overarching answer to the question (this will form the basis of your introduction)
• A series of specific, identifiable poetic devices ( metaphors , caesura , juxtaposition , etc) you have found in the poem
• Ideas about how these devices link to the poem’s messages or themes.
• Some pieces of relevant context (depending on whether you need it for your type of question)

In terms of layout, we do not want to be too prescriptive. Some students prefer to bullet-point their ideas, and others like to separate them by paragraph. If you use the latter approach, you should aim for:

• 1 Introduction
• 4-5 Main paragraphs
• 1 Conclusion

Finally, the length and detail of your plan should be dictated by the nature of the essay you are doing. If you are under exam conditions, you should not spend too much time writing a plan, as you will need that time for the essay itself. Conversely, if you are not under time pressure, you should take your time to really build out your plan and fill in the details.

Introductions

If you have followed all the steps to this point, you should be ready to start writing your essay. All good essays begin with an introduction, so that is where we shall start.

When it comes to introductions, the clue is in the name: this is the place for you to introduce your ideas and answer the question in broad terms. This means that you don’t need to go into too much detail, as you’ll be doing that in the main body of the essay. That means you don’t need quotes, and you’re unlikely to need to quote anything from the poem yet. One thing to remember is that you should mention both the poet’s name and the poem’s title in your introduction. This might seem unnecessary, but it is a good habit to get into, especially if you are writing an essay in which other questions/poems are available to choose from.

As we mentioned earlier, you are unlikely to get a question that simply asks you to analyze a poem in its entirety, with no specific angle. More likely, you’ll be asked to write an essay about a particular thematic element of the poem. Your introduction should reflect this. However, many students fall into the trap of simply regurgitating the question without offering anything more. For example, a question might ask you to explore a poet’s presentation of love, memory, loss, or conflict . You should avoid the temptation to simply hand these terms back in your introduction without expanding upon them. You will get a chance to see this in action below.

Let’s say we were given the following question:

Explore Patrick Kavanagh’s presentation of loss and memory in Memory of My Father

Taking on board the earlier advice, you should hopefully produce an introduction similar to the one written below.

Patrick Kavanagh presents loss as an inescapable fact of existence and subverts the readers’ expectations of memory by implying that memories can cause immense pain, even if they feature loved ones. This essay will argue that Memory of My Father depicts loss to be cyclical and thus emphasizes the difficulties that inevitably occur in the early stages of grief.

As you can see, the introduction is fairly condensed and does not attempt to analyze any specific poetic elements. There will be plenty of time for that as the essay progresses. Similarly, the introduction does not simply repeat the words ‘loss’ and ‘memory’ from the question but expands upon them and offers a glimpse of the kind of interpretation that will follow without providing too much unnecessary detail at this early stage.

Main Paragraphs

Now, we come to the main body of the essay, the quality of which will ultimately determine the strength of our essay. This section should comprise of 4-5 paragraphs, and each of these should analyze an aspect of the poem and then link the effect that aspect creates to the poem’s themes or message. They can also draw upon context when relevant if that is a required component of your particular essay.

There are a few things to consider when writing analytical paragraphs and many different templates for doing so, some of which are listed below.

• PEE (Point-Evidence-Explain)
• PEA (Point-Evidence-Analysis)
• PETAL (Point-Evidence-Technique-Analysis-Link)
• IQA (Identify-Quote-Analyze)
• PEEL (Point-Evidence-Explain-Link)

Some of these may be familiar to you, and they all have their merits. As you can see, there are all effective variations of the same thing. Some might use different terms or change the order, but it is possible to write great paragraphs using all of them.

One of the most important aspects of writing these kind of paragraphs is selecting the features you will be identifying and analyzing. A full list of poetic features with explanations can be found here. If you have done your plan correctly, you should have already identified a series of poetic devices and begun to think about how they link to the poem’s themes.

It is important to remember that, when analyzing poetry, everything is fair game! You can analyze the language, structure, shape, and punctuation of the poem. Try not to rely too heavily on any single type of paragraph. For instance, if you have written three paragraphs about linguistic features ( similes , hyperbole , alliteration , etc), then try to write your next one about a structural device ( rhyme scheme , enjambment , meter , etc).

Regardless of what structure you are using, you should remember that multiple interpretations are not only acceptable but actively encouraged. Techniques can create effects that link to the poem’s message or themes in both complementary and entirely contrasting ways. All these possibilities should find their way into your essay. You are not writing a legal argument that must be utterly watertight – you are interpreting a subjective piece of art.

It is important to provide evidence for your points in the form of either a direct quotation or, when appropriate, a reference to specific lines or stanzas . For instance, if you are analyzing a strict rhyme scheme, you do not need to quote every rhyming word. Instead, you can simply name the rhyme scheme as, for example, AABB , and then specify whether or not this rhyme scheme is applied consistently throughout the poem or not. When you are quoting a section from the poem, you should endeavor to embed your quotation within your line so that your paragraph flows and can be read without cause for confusion.

When it comes to context, remember to check whether or not your essay question requires it before you begin writing. If you do need to use it, you must remember that it is used to elevate your analysis of the poem, not replace it. Think of context like condiments or spices. When used appropriately, they can enhance the experience of eating a meal, but you would have every right to complain if a restaurant served you a bowl of ketchup in lieu of an actual meal. Moreover, you should remember to only use the contextual information that helps your interpretation rather than simply writing down facts to prove you have memorized them. Examiners will not be impressed that you know the date a particular poet was born or died unless that information relates to the poem itself.

For the sake of ease, let’s return to our earlier question:

Have a look at the example paragraph below, taking note of the ways in which it interprets the linguistic technique in several different ways.

Kavanagh uses a metaphor when describing how the narrator ’s father had “fallen in love with death” in order to capture the narrator’s conflicted attitudes towards his loss. By conflating the ordinarily juxtaposed states of love and death, Kavanagh implies the narrator’s loss has shattered his previously held understanding of the world and left him confused. Similarly, the metaphor could suggest the narrator feels a degree of jealousy, possibly even self-loathing, because their father embraced death willingly rather than remaining with the living. Ultimately, the metaphor’s innate impossibility speaks to the narrator’s desire to rationalize their loss because the reality, that his father simply died, is too painful for him to bear.

As you can see, the paragraph clearly engages with a poetic device and uses an appropriately embedded quotation. The subsequent interpretations are then varied enough to avoid repeating each other, but all clearly link to the theme of loss that was mentioned in the question. Obviously, this is only one analytical paragraph, but a completed essay should contain 4-5. This would allow the writer to analyze enough different devices and link them to both themes mentioned in the question.

Conclusions

By this stage, you should have written the bulk of your essay in the form of your introduction and 4-5 main analytical paragraphs. If you have done those things properly, then the conclusion should largely take care of itself.

The world’s simplest essay plan sounds something like this:

• Tell them what you’re going to tell them
• Tell them what you’ve told them

This is, naturally, an oversimplification, but it is worth bearing in mind. The conclusion to an essay is not the place to introduce your final, groundbreaking interpretation. Nor is it the place to reveal a hitherto unknown piece of contextual information that shatters any prior critical consensus with regard to the poem you are writing about. If you do either of these things, the examiner will be asking themselves one simple question: why didn’t they write this earlier?

In its most simple form, a conclusion is there, to sum up the points you have made and nothing more.

As with the previous sections, there is a little more to a great conclusion than merely stating the things you have already made. The trick to a great conclusion is to bind those points together to emphasize the essay’s overarching thread or central argument. This is a subtle skill, but mastering it will really help you to finish your essays with a flourish by making your points feel like they are more than the sum of their parts.

Finally, let’s remind ourselves of the hypothetical essay question we’ve been using:

Remember that, just like your introduction, your conclusion should be brief and direct and must not attempt to do more than it needs to.

In conclusion, Kavanagh’s poem utilizes numerous techniques to capture the ways in which loss is both inescapable and a source of enormous pain. Moreover, the poet subverts positive memories by showcasing how they can cause loved ones more pain than comfort in the early stages of grief. Ultimately, the poem demonstrates how malleable memory can be in the face of immense loss due to the way the latter shapes and informs the former.

As you can see, this conclusion is confident and authoritative but does not need to provide evidence to justify this tone because that evidence has already been provided earlier in the essay. You should pay close attention to the manner in which the conclusion links different points together under one banner in order to provide a sense of assuredness.

You should refer to the poet by either using their full name or, more commonly, their surname. After your first usage, you may refer to them as ‘the poet.’ Never refer to the poet using just their first name.

This is a good question, and the answer entirely depends on the level of study as well as the nature of the examination. If you are writing a timed essay for a school exam, you are unlikely to need any form of referencing. If, however, you are writing an essay as part of coursework or at a higher education institution, you may need to refer to the specific guidelines of that institution.

Again, this will depend on the type of essay you are being asked to write. If you are writing a longer essay or writing at a higher educational level, it can be useful to refer to other poems in the writer’s repertoire to help make comments on an aspect of the poem you are primarily writing about. However, for the kind of essay outlined in this article, you should focus solely on the poem you have been asked to write about.

This is one of the most common concerns students have about writing essays . Ultimately, the quality of an essay is more likely to be determined by the quality of paragraphs than the quantity anyway, so you should focus on making your paragraphs as good as they can be. Beyond this, it is important to remember that the time required to write a paragraph is not fixed. The more you write, the faster they will become. You should trust the process, focus on making each paragraph as good as it can be, and you’ll be amazed at how the timing issue takes care of itself.

Other Resources

We hope you have found this article useful and would love for you to comment or reach out to us if you have any queries about what we’ve written. We’d love to hear your feedback!

In the meantime, we’ve collated a list of resources you might find helpful when setting out to tackle a poetry essay, which you can find below.

• Do poems have to rhyme?
• 10 important elements of poetry
• How to analyze a poem with SMILE
• How to approach unseen poetry
• 18 Different Types of Themes in Poetry

Home » Poetry Explained » How to Write a Poetry Essay (Complete Guide)

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Santamaria, Joe. "How to Write a Poetry Essay (Complete Guide)". Poem Analysis , https://poemanalysis.com/how-to-write-a-poetry-essay/ . Accessed 6 September 2024.

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What Is Descriptive Poetry

Descriptive Poetry: A Powerful Tool For Creative Expression

Descriptive poetry is a literary form that uses words to create a powerful mental image or to evoke a strong emotional response in the reader. This type of poetry uses vivid imagery to paint a vivid picture of the subject matter and make it more alive. It also often explores philosophical ideas and deep, abstract themes in a more accessible and relatable form than other poetry forms. Descriptive poems usually include metaphors, similes, personification, and other rhetorical devices to create their vivid and powerful imagery.

Descriptive poetry has become extremely popular in recent years for those looking to express their feelings about a particular topic. This type of poetry is often used in visual art, music, theatre, and even advertisement. It has become a powerful tool in the creative expression of emotion, thoughts, and ideas by using vivid language to create a vivid and powerful impression in the minds of readers. In fact, it can be argued that descriptive poetry is an important component of most literary works.

The aim of descriptive poetry is to illustrate and explore a concept, or to evoke an emotional response. When using descriptive poetry, the poet must use vivid language and imaginative imagery in order to effectively and accurately portray the subject matter. This allows readers to connect with and understand the poet’s message on a deeper level, as they are able to receive conscious and subconscious messages from the content. As mentioned before, descriptive poetry often explores philosophical and deep, abstract themes, and this can be a powerful tool for personal development, as it gives readers the opportunity to look deeper into the meaning of life.

There are various forms of descriptive poetry, such as lyric poetry, elegy, ode, and eulogy. Lyric poetry is probably the most popular form of descriptive poetry, as it is widely used in music and other forms of media. Lyric poetry often speaks of love, loss, and other thoughts and emotions that inspire the poet. Elegy is a more formal type of descriptive poetry that pays tribute to someone who has passed away, while ode and eulogy are two very different types of poems; odes are often used in praise or dedication to something or someone, while eulogies pay tribute to someone who has passed away.

Syntax and Rhyme – Crucial Elements To Consider For Descriptive Poetry

When writing descriptive poetry, syntax can be an important element to consider. Syntax is the ‘rules’ of grammar which helps to control how we construct a sentence. Syntax gives poets the ability to create a certain mood of the poem in a very intentional way, as it controls the flow and rhythm of language. Different forms of syntax such as enjambment and caesura can be used to create a particular feeling or atmosphere in the poem. Therefore, it is important to consider how to position words and/or lines in order to get the desired effect.

Rhyme can also play an important part in descriptive poetry. Rhyme gives the poem a certain musical quality and helps to emphasis particular points throughout the poem. Rhymes can also be helpful in connecting ideas from different parts of the poem, which can make it easier for readers to form an overall understanding of the content. It is important for poets to choose the rhyme scheme carefully and use various rhyming words in order to bring out the main focus of the poem.

In conclusion, descriptive poetry is a powerful form of creative expression. It allows poets to create vivid mental images and evoke strong emotions in their readers. This type of poetry uses vivid language and imagery as well as various rhetorical devices in order to express its message effectively. Syntax and rhyme are important elements to consider in descriptive poetry, as they give the poem a certain musical quality and rhythm, as well as helping readers to form an understanding of the content.

Creative Visuals – Complementing A Descriptive Poem

A great tool to use when writing descriptive poetry is to use visuals to complement the poem. Visuals such as illustrations, photographs, or drawings can help to increase the reader’s understanding and enjoyment of the poem. As well as this, visual prompts can also help to spark ideas and inspiration, as visuals can often trigger ideas and emotions more easily than words alone. Visuals can also be used to emphasise particular points in the poem, as well as making the reader pay more attention to particular elements of the poem.

When it comes to choosing visuals to complement a descriptive poem, the most important factor to consider is relevance. The visuals should be relevant to the poem in some way, as this helps to emphasise the points made in the poem and increases the reader’s understanding. As well as this, the visuals should also be aesthetically pleasing and should complement the poem, as this will make the poem more enjoyable.

Creating visuals to complement a descriptive poem can be a fun and rewarding way to express emotions, thoughts, and ideas. This is a great tool to use for those who are looking to create something visually beautiful and unique. Creativity and imagination are key when it comes to creating visuals that complement descriptive poetry, and it can be a great way to express oneself in a unique and powerful way.

Social Platforms – An Ideal Place For Descriptive Poetry

Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have become an ideal places for poets to share their descriptive poetry. Not only can poets use these platforms to share their poetry with the world, but they can also gain valuable feedback from their followers. Social media also gives poets a great opportunity to set up their own profiles and websites in order to share their work and connect with more people.

Social media platforms can also be great for finding inspiration, as poets can browse and explore the works of other poets all over the world. This can be a great way to find new and interesting ideas and to stay up to date with the latest trends in poetry. Poets can also look at other people’s work and gain insight into different styles and techniques which they can then incorporate into their own work.

By using social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, poets can gain invaluable exposure and recognition. This can be a great way to get their work seen by a wide audience and to get valuable feedback from other poets and readers. It is an effective way to build an audience and to establish oneself as a poet.

Benefits Of Writing Descriptive Poetry

There are numerous benefits to writing descriptive poetry. Not only can it be a great way to express emotions and ideas, but it can also be a great outlet for creative expression and personal growth. Descriptive poetry can be a great tool for exploring the deeper themes of life, philosophy, and religion, and it can be a great way to stimulate the mind and explore ideas in a more personal and interesting way.

Writing descriptive poetry can also be a great way to find inspiration and to stay up to date with current trends in poetry. This type of poetry often explores philosophical and deep, abstract themes, and this can be a powerful tool for personal development, as it gives readers the opportunity to look deeper into the meaning of life.

Finally, descriptive poetry can be a great tool for getting creative with language. Poets can use various devices such as metaphors and similes in order to create vivid imagery and to evoke strong feelings in their readers. This type of poetry can also help poets to find their own unique writing style and to develop their own creative techniques.

Modern Descriptive Poetry – The Next Creative Frontier

Modern descriptive poetry is a new and exciting form of creative expression. The current climate of modern poetry is influenced by technology and social media, and as such has allowed poets to express themselves in new and innovative ways. Technology has enabled poets to create new forms of poetry and to explore deeply philosophical themes. This type of poetry often incorporates visuals, which makes it more engaging and powerful.

Modern poets also often use social media platforms in order to share their work. Not only can they showcase their work to a wide audience, but they can also gain valuable feedback from followers. Social media is a great tool for poets, as it allows them to connect with like-minded people and to stay up to date with the latest trends in poetry.

Modern descriptive poetry is a great tool for creative expression and personal growth. It can help poets to explore ideas in exciting new ways and to express themselves in powerful and unique ways.

Combining Art Forms – Exploring Descriptive Poetry Further

Descriptive poetry can be further explored by combining various art forms. Visual art, music, and theatre can be combined in order to create something truly unique and powerful. This type of creative expression can be used to create something truly mesmerising and can help poets to express themselves in even more innovative ways.

The combination of art forms can help to bring out particular themes and messages in poetry. Visuals, music, and theatre can be helpful in conveying a specific message or idea, as they often trigger ideas and emotions more easily than words alone. This type of creativity can be used to explore new ideas and to take descriptive poetry to the next level.

Combining art forms is a great tool to use when writing descriptive poetry. It can be used to create something truly unique and powerful, and can help poets to explore ideas in new and innovative ways. It is also a great way to express oneself in a creative and meaningful way.

Dannah Hannah is an established poet and author who loves to write about the beauty and power of poetry. She has published several collections of her own works, as well as articles and reviews on poets she admires. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English, with a specialization in poetics, from the University of Toronto. Hannah was also a panelist for the 2017 Futurepoem book Poetry + Social Justice, which aimed to bring attention to activism through poetry. She lives in Toronto, Canada, where she continues to write and explore the depths of poetry and its influence on our lives.

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How to write a poetry essay

• August 26, 2023

Whether you love literature or are just curious, this guide will help you understand, enjoy, and talk about poetry. So, let’s start exploring the world of lines and symbols, where each one tells a story to discover.

Here are the steps on writing a poetry essay.

Choose a poem

The first step is, of course, to choose a poem to write your essay . 

It should be one that you find interesting, thought-provoking, or emotionally resonant. It’s important to select a poem that you can engage with and analyze effectively.

• Choose a poem that genuinely captures your interest. Look for poems that evoke emotions, thoughts, or curiosity when you read them.
• Consider the themes addressed in the poem. It should offer ample material for analysis.

When choosing a poem

So for this guide, let’s choose Emily Dickinson’s poem “Because I could not stop for Death.” You’ll see a short excerpt of this poem for your understanding. 

Poem example for poetry essay

Because i couldn not stop for Death by Emily Dickinson

       Because I could not stop for Death –        He kindly stopped for me –        The Carriage held but just Ourselves –        And Immortality.        We slowly drove – He knew no haste        And I had put away        My labor and my leisure too,        For His Civility –        We passed the School, where Children strove        At Recess – in the Ring –        We passed the Fields of Gazing Grain –        We passed the Setting Sun –        The poem continues....

This poem is intriguing due to its exploration of mortality, the afterlife, and eternity. The imagery and language in the poem provide ample material for analysis, making it a suitable choice for a comprehensive essay.

After carefully choosing the poem that interests you, understanding the poem is the biggest key to writing an effective and nice poetry essay.

Understand the poem

Reading the poem several times to grasp its meaning is the most important part of a good analysis. You must first analyze the structure, rhyme scheme , meter and literary tools used in the poem.

For a solid understanding, you should:

• Read the poem multiple times to familiarize yourself with its content. Each reading may reveal new insights.
• Identify the central themes or messages the poem conveys.
• Study the rhyme scheme and meter (rhythmic pattern) of the poem.
• Consider how the structure, including its stanzas, lines, and breaks, contributes to the poem's meaning and impact.

For example

Remember, understanding the poem thoroughly is the foundation for a well-informed analysis. Take your time to grasp the poem’s various elements before moving on to the next steps in your essay.

Now that we have a clear understanding of the poem, let’s move into writing the introduction. 

Write a catchy introduction

• Begin with an attention-grabbing hook sentence that piques the reader's interest.
• Provide the necessary information about the poem and its author. Mention the poet's name and title of the poem.
• Offer some context about the poem's time period, literary movement, or cultural influences.
• Present your thesis statement , which outlines the main argument or focus of your essay.

Poetry essay introduction example

Introduction

Thesis statement for poetry essays

A thesis statement is a clear and concise sentence or two that presents the main argument or point of your essay . It provides a roadmap for your reader, outlining what they can expect to find in your essay.

In the case of a poetry essay, your thesis statement should capture the central message, themes, or techniques you’ll be discussing in relation to the poem.

Why is the thesis important for a poetry essay?

By reading your thesis statement, your audience should have a clear idea of what to expect from your poem analysis essay.

When creating a thesis statement, keep these in mind: 

• Start by identifying the key elements of the poem that you want to discuss. These could be themes, literary devices, emotions conveyed, or the poet's intentions.
• Based on the key elements you've identified, formulate a central argument that encapsulates your main analysis. What is the poem trying to convey? What are you trying to say about the poem?
• Your thesis should be specific and focused. Avoid vague or broad statements. Instead, provide a clear direction for your analysis.

Poetry essasy thesis statement example

....(introduction starts) ....(introduction continues) ....(introduction continues) In "Because I could not stop for Death," Emily Dickinson employs vivid imagery, personification, and an unconventional perspective on mortality to explore the transcendence of death and the eternity of the soul. Thesis statement, which is usually the last sentence of your introduction

Analyze language and imagery

Language and image analysis in poetry involves a close examination of the words, phrases and literary devices used by the poet. In this step you must uncover the deeper layers of meaning, emotion and sensory experiences conveyed by the poet’s choice of language and imagery.

Why language and imagery?

• Start by identifying and listing the literary devices present in the poem. These could include metaphors, similes, personification, symbolism, alliteration, onomatopoeia, and more.
• For each identified device, explain its significance. How does it contribute to the poem's meaning, mood, or tone?
• Analyze how the literary devices interact with the context of the poem. How do they relate to the themes, characters, or situations presented in the poem?
• Discuss how the use of specific language and imagery influences the reader's emotional response and understanding of the poem.

Continuing with Emily Dickinson’s “Because I could not stop for Death,” let’s analyze the use of imagery:

Language and imagery analysis example

Lines chosen for analysis

Discuss themes in body paragraphs

Exploring themes helps you grasp the deeper meaning of the poem and connect it to broader human experiences. Understanding the themes allows you to uncover what the poet is attempting to convey and how the poem relates to readers on a universal level.

In this step, you will likely dedicate multiple body paragraphs to the analysis of various aspects of language and imagery. Each body paragraph should focus on a specific literary device, phrase, or aspect of language and imagery.

Here’s how you can structure the body paragraphs.

Poetry essay body paragraphs example

Body Paragraph 1: Identify and Explain Literary Devices

Body Paragraph 2: Context and Interaction with Themes

Body Paragraph 3: Reader's emotional response and understanding

Provide evidence from the poem

Providing evidence involves quoting specific lines or stanzas from the poem to support the points you’re making in your analysis. These quotes serve as concrete examples that demonstrate how the poet uses language, imagery, or literary devices to convey specific meanings or emotions.

• Select lines or stanzas from the poem that directly relate to the point you're making in your analysis.
• Introduce each quote with context, explaining the significance of the lines and how they contribute to your analysis.
• Use quotation marks to indicate that you're using the poet's language.
• After providing the quote, interpret its meaning. Explain how the language, imagery, or devices used in the quoted lines contribute to your analysis.

Providing evidence example

In your essay, you should include several quotes and interpret them to reinforce your points. Quoting specific lines from the poem allows you to showcase the poet’s language while demonstrating how these lines contribute to the poem’s overall expression.

Write a conclusion

Conclusion paragraph is the last sentence of your poem analysis essay. It reinforces your thesis statement and emphasizes your insights.

Additionally, the conclusion offers a chance to provide a final thought that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. In your conclusion, make sure to:

• Start by rephrasing your thesis statement. Remind the reader of the main argument you've made in your essay.
• Provide a concise summary of the main points. Avoid introducing new information; focus on the key ideas.
• Discuss the broader significance or implications. How does the poem's message relate to readers beyond its specific context?
• End with a thoughtful reflection, observation, or question that leaves the reader with something to ponder.

Poetry essay conclusion example

In your essay, the conclusion serves as a final opportunity to leave a strong impression on the reader by summarizing your analysis and offering insights into the poem’s broader significance.

Now, it’s time to double check what you’ve written.

Proofread and revise your essay

Edit your essay for clarity, coherence, tense selection , correct headings , etc. Ensure that your ideas flow logically and your analysis is well-supported. Remember, a poetry essay is an opportunity to delve into the nuances of a poem’s language, themes, and emotions.

• Review each paragraph to ensure ideas flow logically from one to the next.
• Check for grammar and punctuation errors.
• Verify that your evidence from the poem is accurately quoted and explained.
• Make sure your language is clear and effectively conveys your analysis.

By proofreading and revising, you can refine your essay, improving its readability and ensuring that your insights are communicated accurately.

So this was the last part, you’re now ready to write your first poem analysis (poetry) essay. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i include in the introduction of a poetry essay.

In the introduction, provide background information about the poem and poet. Include the poem’s title, publication date, and any relevant context that helps readers understand its significance.

Can I include my emotional responses in a poetry essay?

Yes, you can discuss your emotional responses, but ensure they are supported by your analysis of the poem’s literary elements. Avoid focusing solely on personal feelings.

Is it important to understand the poet's background when writing a poetry essay?

While it can provide context, your focus should be on analyzing the poem itself. If the poet’s background is relevant to the poem’s interpretation, mention it briefly.

What's the best way to conclude a poetry essay?

In the conclusion, summarize your main points and tie them together. Offer insights into the poem’s broader significance, implications, or lasting impact.

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Using Descriptive Detail

This guide will explore the various uses and applications of description. Its purpose is to demonstrate the effectiveness of writing which includes descriptive details.

A Definition of Descriptive Detail

Descriptive details allow sensory recreations of experiences, objects, or imaginings. In other words, description encourages a more concrete or sensory experience of a subject, one which allows the reader to transport himself or herself into a scene. Writing that lacks description is in danger of being plain or overly general.

Uses of Descriptive Detail

There are many different uses of descriptive detail. Although most commonly associated with creative writing, description enhances a wide variety of subjects. Writing which effectively uses descriptive detail will allow a reader to do more than merely see words on a page. Original description gives writing a sense of honesty and believability, while concise details can help enhance your focus. Descriptive details cause a reader to feel, to hear, to taste, to become intimately connected with the images and experiences being recreated.

Cara McDonald, GTA - Department of English Look. Your reader is a bored, tired little person, maybe sitting at a bus stop. Take care of them. Transport them. Let them smell your mom's coffee, let them see the ugly flowers on that dress you had to wear on the first day of Sunday School.

Mary Kate Perry, GTA - Department of English One of my favorite ways of explaining the importance of vivid description in fiction writing is E.L. Doctorow's "Not that it's raining, but the feel of being rained upon." You don't tell your reader that it's rainy, because they won't care. They won't identify. You have to make them care through speaking to their senses. We perceive the world through our senses.

In fiction writing, it is important to make your scenes and characters as vivid as possible. One way this can be accomplished is through the inclusion of descriptive details. Fiction which incorporates original sensory description has the power to actively involve and affect the reader. Without such details, fiction is in danger of becoming listless or flat. Description is equally as important as dialogue and plot in moving forward the action of a story.

Natalie Goldberg, Wild Mind "William Carlos Williams wrote a poem about standing by the water tap in his kitchen and waiting for it to freshen. You know city water: sometimes it comes out rusty and you wait for it to run clean. I've done it, but I've never thought about it until I read Williams's poem."

Poetry often begins with an image. Therefore, poetry is in a unique position to explore and exploit the possibilities of language. By utilizing effective descriptive details, the language of a poem is able to achieve power over the thoughts and feelings of readers. Rhythm and meter are important to poetry, but without descriptive detail a poem cannot engage the imagination or the senses.

Narrative Essay

Gilbert Findlay, Departement of English All writing is an act of definition. The writer uses some terms that are key to the subject. Take for example this passage from Itabari Njeri: 'Because of my family, I learned to see and hear the complexity and grand drama that underlay the simplest of human actions.' The key terms here are 'family,' complexity,' and 'human actions.' Then, the writer is obliged to follow with descriptive detail. It must be concrete in order to 'define' these terms in context . Without descriptive, contextual detail, the reader may only understand 'family' with reference to his or her own family, while what Njeri may be promising about an understanding of culture through family may be 90 degrees off from what the reader assumes. "

Persuasive Writing

Karen Wuest, GTA - Departement of English There is a significant difference between choosing details simply to describe something and selecting details that not only describe, but also reveal . This is particularly true in fiction—selective details which reveal character, or which might enlighten the reader about the narrator. It is also true in general, where details often reveal some deeper issue throbbing beneath the surface. That details can be used to describe is essential and true, but they should also go beyond that. Sheer description bogged down with details lacks energy, verve. The details must carry weight, reveal something beyond just the surface they have been describing.

In the Creative Writer's Handbook , Philip K. Jason and Allan B. Lefcowitz explain that "sensory experience is primary experience: we see, feel, taste, smell, and hear before we think, analyze, choose, and argue" (130). Therefore, before an argument can effectively persuade an audience, the writer must carefully select and utilize descriptive details. If a writer can effectively engage the reader's primary senses, then the audience can be more easily enticed to feel the validity of the argument. For example, an argument which provides a plea to end deforestation is far more moving when it includes an emotional and sensory depiction of the desolate environment, the ravaged wilderness, the displaced animals. Descriptive details can cause emotional triggers which are key when attempting to persuade an audience.

Summary/Response

Gilbert Findlay, Department of English The human mind cannot communicate in abstractions. If I write, 'communication is the most crucial element in contemporary society,' you, the reader think, 'gotta talk to my girlfriend.' But if I am more specific and write, 'Instant technological transfer of information from the World Wide Web to in-progress network reports of delicate diplomatic negotiations require that we reevaluate the way we respond to communications in contemporary society' then you, the reader, think, 'Oh! This writer is focusing on communication by the electronic media.' Bingo! Descriptive detail means clear communication.

Summary response writing is not exempt from the need to include descriptive detail. A descriptive summary/response essay will be effective if it includes both objective and subjective details. Objective details refer to concrete facts, while subjective details stress feelings about facts, places, people, and events. A balance between objective and subjective details will help the essay involve the emotions of the reader, while still relating the important facts.

Overall, a descriptive essay will focus upon one clear, dominant impression or idea. This dominant idea should be made clear in the thesis, and should guide the writer's selection of detail. Although the summary is not an appropriate place for a large amount of description, the main idea in the response can be effectively emphasized through the addition of clear creative and critical descriptive detail.

Types of Descriptive Detail

There are many different ways in which descriptive detail can be included in writing. Whether to describe, persuade, illustrate or demonstrate, the descriptive details you include in your writing should serve a purpose not just pad your writing with more words.

Sensory Detail

It is important to remember that human beings learn about the world through using the five senses. They are our primary source of knowledge about the world. Therefore, writing which incorporates vivid, sensory detail is more likely to engage and affect the reader.

The following writing sample uses sensory detail to create concrete images. Because the most effective way to incorporate sensory detail is to use all five senses in harmony, this sample provides an effective example of how sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste work together to strengthen writing. Each of the views highlights exactly how each sense is involved in improving the paragraph's imagery.

Example Text: Paragraph Without Sensory Detail

Grandmother Workman reached over and grabbed her grandson's arm. He was nervous because the staircase was so steep, but she leaned against him and they began to climb.

Comment: These are the beginning sentences of a paragraph which describes a boy helping an elderly woman up a flight of stairs. The scene seems simple enough, but it leaves the reader with many unanswered questions. Without the inclusion of sensory detail, the writing seems vague and non-specific. How might the author use descriptive detail to make the scene more vivid?

Example: Add Sight

Gandmother Workman lurched over and grabbed the pale skin of Randal's thin forearm with her leathery hand . The folds and creases beneath her skin coiled themselves out like electrical wiring, like the bloated, roughly-textured relief map of the world that his mother just posted above his bedside table. Randal looked ahead toward the winding spiral staircase, fidgeted with a small hole in his baseball jersey , and bit his lip. His mouth filled with the sweet, coppery taste of blood as she leaned in closely toward him, breathing her hot breath on the damp hair at the base of his neck. She smelled of wet cigarettes and bacon. As they slowly climbed the long, steep staircase, the only sound was his grandmothers' labored breathing and the mournful creak of the wooden stairs.

Comment: Visual details are often successfully incorporated into writing. Details which appeal to our sense of sight ensure that the reader is able to give faces to characters, or add concrete details to a setting. For example, through adding visual detail, a room can become more than just a blank, vague receptacle. It becomes a small, oblong room with peeling maroon wallpaper and cracked ceiling tiles. A visual description allows readers to place themselves within a text.

In the sample text, visual details help accomplish this through encouraging the reader to create a mental image of the characters, setting, and action.

Example: Add Sound

Grandmother Workman lurched over and grabbed the pale skin of Randal's thin forearm with her leathery hand. The folds and creases beneath her skin coiled themselves out like electrical wiring, like the bloated, roughly-textured relief map of the world that his mother just posted above his bedside table. Randal looked ahead toward the winding spiral staircase, fidgeted with a small hole in his baseball jersey, and bit his lip. His mouth filled with the sweet, coppery taste of blood as she leaned in closely toward him, breathing her hot breath on the damp hair at the base of his neck. She smelled of wet cigarettes and bacon. As they slowly climbed the long, steep staircase, the only sound was his grandmothers' labored breathing and the mournful creak of the wooden stairs .

Comment: The human sense of hearing is an important means of communication. Next to visual details, auditory details are most commonly included in writing. This is because sounds give us a primary experience of the world. Sounds can remind us of personal memories, or can create images in our minds. For example, the sound of a ship's whistle might remind a person of a summer's night in New England, or of a tour of duty in the military. Sounds recreate personal, sensory experiences.

The addition of auditory details gives the writer the opportunity to create a more detailed, layered, texture. In the sample text, the writer has incorporated references to sounds which allow the reader to infer the state of the old staircase, as well as the physical condition of the grandmother.

Example: Add Smell

Grandmother Workman lurched over and grabbed the pale skin of Randal's thin forearm with her leathery hand. The folds and creases beneath her skin coiled themselves out like electrical wiring, like the bloated, roughly-textured relief map of the world that his mother just posted above his bedside table. Randal looked ahead toward the winding spiral staircase, fidgeted with a small hole in his baseball jersey, and bit his lip. His mouth filled with the sweet, coppery taste of blood as she leaned in closely toward him, breathing her hot breath on the damp hair at the base of his neck. She smelled of wet cigarettes and bacon. As they slowly climbed the long, steep staircase, the only sound was his grandmothers' labored breathing and the mournful creak of the wooden stairs.

Comment: The sense of smell is commonly overlooked in writing. However, it is the human sense of smell that is most closely linked to the brain. The receptors in the brain which are responsible for processing smells are very close to the area of the brain responsible for the storage of memory. Because of this link, scents are able to cause vivid sensory re-creations of memories.

Our sense of smell has an uncommonly strong power over our feelings, thoughts, and emotions. In the sample text, the addition of olfactory details helps set the mood of the paragraph by triggering our senses.

Example: Add Touch

Grandmother Workman lurched over and grabbed the pale skin of Randal's thin forearm with her leathery hand. The folds and creases beneath her skin coiled themselves out like electrical wiring, like the bloated, roughly-textured relief map of the world that his mother just posted above his bedside table. Randal looked ahead toward the winding spiral staircase, fidgeted with a small hole in his baseball jersey, and bit his lip. His mouth filled with the sweet, coppery taste of blood as she leaned in closely toward him, breathing her hot breath on the damp hair at the base of his neck . She smelled of wet cigarettes and bacon. As they slowly climbed the long, steep staircase, the only sound was his grandmothers' labored breathing and the mournful creak of the wooden stairs.

Comment: The sense of touch encourages us to investigate the world around us by feeling it and learning the texture, shape, and size of things. Tactile images can be powerful sensory triggers. They allow a reader not only to visualize a scene, but to experience it. Inclusion of the sense of touch prevents the reader from remaining distanced or detached from the writing.

In the sample text, the sense of touch has been engaged through allowing the reader to recreate a primary sensation: the feel of a person's breath on the back of his or her neck. This is a sensory experience that most people have encountered. Therefore, through recalling familiar tactile sensations the writer encourages the readers to put themselves in the place of the characters.

Example: Add Taste

Grandmother Workman lurched over and grabbed the pale skin of Randal's thin forearm with her leathery hand. The folds and creases beneath her skin coiled themselves out like electrical wiring, like the bloated, roughly-textured relief map of the world that his mother just posted above his bedside table. Randal looked ahead toward the winding spiral staircase, fidgeted with a small hole in his baseball jersey, and bit his lip. His mouth filled with the sweet, coppery taste of blood as she leaned in closely toward him , breathing her hot breath on the damp hair at the base of his neck. She smelled of wet cigarettes and bacon. As they slowly climbed the long, steep staircase, the only sound was his grandmothers' labored breathing and the mournful creak of the wooden stairs.

Comment: The human sense of taste allows a person to do much more than simply select and enjoy food. There are four familiar tastes:

By appealing directly to any of these tastes, a writer has the unique opportunity to affect a reader's senses. Memories, feelings, people, and places can all be suggested through the sense of taste.

Characterization

Characterization refers to the process of describing the appearance, action, and thoughts of the persons discussed within a text. Characterization is an important part of description, because it causes readers to more fully understand the motivations of characters. Effective characterization works in harmony with setting and plot to make the reader connect on a more intimate level to a text. In order to create realistic characters, a writer should be certain to give each person within the text:

• a unique way of behaving
• a unique way of speaking
• a unique appearance
• a unique was of thinking

If this can be accomplished, the text will achieve a heightened sense of believability.

Techniques for Writing Characterization

No matter how insignificant a character might seem, it is important to provide insight a to their thoughts and feelings. Fully-developed characters are the basis for effective writing.

In order to complete a more thorough characterization, a writer might ask himself the following questions:

• When was the character born?
• Where was the character born?
• Who were the parents of this character?
• What was this character's family life like?
• How much education has the character experienced?
• How does the character speak? Move? Relate to others?
• What do others think about this character?
• What does this character think about himself?
• What does this character do for a living? For a hobby? In his free time?
• What did the character dream last night?
• What is the worst thing that ever happened to this character?
• What is the best thing that ever happened to this character?
• Who/what does this character love?
• Who/what does this character hate?
• What does the character want and why?

The more thoroughly the writer has researched the characters, the more realistically developed they will seem.

Observational Writing

The key to effective observing is to be able to show your reader people, places, evens, or objects through the use of specific detail. In The Prentice Hall Guide For College Writers , Stephen Reid explains the process of observational writing:

If your reader is going to learn from your observations, you need to give the exact details that you learned from, not just your conclusions or generalizations. Even in writing, experience is the best teacher, so use specific details to communicate the feel, the data, the sights and sounds and smells.

Through the use of the following observational techniques, a writer will be able to more vividly describe a subject:

Using Comparisons

Describing absences, describing changes.

• Point of View

Comparisons most often come in the form of analogy or simile. An analogy demonstrates the similarity or similarities between two things or concepts, while a simile compares two distinctly different things using the word "like" or "as." Comparisons are created by writers in order to help readers create vivid visual images of the subject matter. Comparisons can also help readers connect something they have not experienced with something they are very familiar with. Not many people have jumped out of an airplane but many have ridden on a rollercoaster, so a writer can compare the experience of skydiving with that first drop on a world class rollercoaster.

Effective observation does more that merely report data. While observation requires an explanation of the persons or things which are present, often a more thorough, layered text through can be created through also revealing the things which are not present . For example, if a writer wished to describe a young woman getting dressed for her wedding day, it would be necessary to explain what she was wearing: an antique dress with a satin train, plain white pumps with a faint black scuff on the toe, and her future mother-in-law's ugly, yellowed veil. All these details are important. But much could also be explained about the woman's emotional state by also observing what was missing: a smile.

To make a subject less static, writers often choose to relate observations about changes in the subject's form or condition. Such details give people, places, and things a sense of history. Good writers will look for evidence of these changes in their subjects. From a speck of rust on the frame of a car to a potato in the pantry which has grown roots, the observation of changes is an effective way to breathe life into subject matter.

Choosing Point of View

The phrase "point of view" refers to position from which an object, person, or event is observed. Before beginning to write, an author must decide upon which point of view would best complement the subject matter. Choosing to approach a subject from the most interesting or informative point of view is essential to effective observational writing. Perhaps a story might be better told from the point of view of the grandfather as opposed to the daughter? Or perhaps a critical essay would benefit from scientific, rather than conversational, point of view? Point of view holds the power to determine the audience's response to writing. As Stephen Reid explains in The Prentice Hall Guide For College Writers , " what is seen depends on who is doing the seeing."

Effective observational writing employs many different techniques, yet must always do so with purpose. It is not useful to describe everything about a subject. If this occurs, a reader will become bogged down with inconsequential information. Rather, a writer should be careful to focus his or her attentions upon a clear dominant idea. Ultimately, successful writers are able to focus primarily upon details and images which enhance or expand upon the reader's understanding the dominant idea. Knowing what to exclude from a piece of writing is as important as knowing what to include .

Showing Versus Telling

Showing vs. telling is an important aspect of creating effective description. The distinction between these two types of writing can be defined in very basic terms. "Telling" refers to the process of creating text which does not speak to the imagination of the reader. Writing which "tells" is plain and straightforward, yet often has difficulty involving the reader. An example of a "telling" sentence would be, "Kathy was sad." This sentence tells the reader what judgment needs to be made about Kathy, yet does not provide the evidence to support that judgment. For example, how do we know that Kathy is sad? How is she behaving? What does she look like? Writing which "shows" generally incorporates vivid descriptive detail in order to help the reader evaluate evidence in order to make the appropriate judgments.

Example: Telling in Creative Writing

Mrs. Jones loved gardening.

Comment: This sentence tells the reader exactly what judgment need to be made about Mrs. Jones. However, because this analysis of Mrs. ones' feelings has been "forced" by the writer, the reader is unlikely to feel any real emotion or understanding towards the character. We know that this woman loves to garden, but "love" is an ambiguous word. For example, how much does she love to garden? How does she express this love? There is no room for interpretive analysis, because none of the pieces of the puzzle have been provided.

Example: Showing in Creative Writing

From the moment she woke up in the morning, Mrs. Jones smiled at the thought of her garden. Most mornings, she'd scald her mouth trying to gulp down her coffee so that she could get outside while the ground was still damp from the morning dew. Once she knelt down in the soil, she lost track of all time and all concerns of her body. She would work well into the evening, barely noticing when the nails of her left hand would break to the point of bleeding. Mrs. Jones' Jones jeans were always stained on the knees with thick mud, and her arms were always bruised and scraped. But she didn't mind a bit.

Comment: The "showing" version of Mrs. Jones' story does a more effective job of involving the reader. Although the word "love" is never mentioned in relationship to her garden, the reader can clearly infer Mrs. Jones' feelings through the descriptive depiction of her actions. Readers have not merely been "told" that Mrs. Jones loves her garden. Instead, readers are able to see and feel this love for themselves.

Example: Telling in Critical Writing

Dennis Rodman is a poor role model.

Comment: In this sentence, the author makes a clear statement of opinion. However, an unsupported opinion does not have the power to affect or influence a reader. Instead of merely claiming that Dennis Rodman is a poor role model, the author must describe the situation in order to fully explain why he has come to that conclusion. The reader must be given all of the necessary evidence to "show" that Rodman is poor role model. Otherwise, the argument is neither moving, nor convincing.

Example: Showing in Critical Writing

Dennis Rodman continues to break the rules of the NBA. He is rude to officials, excessively violent on and off the court, and has publicly claimed he holds no remorse for his actions.

Comment: In this "showing" example, the author has reserved judgment for the audience. With the evidence provided, it is likely that a reader would come to the conclusion that Dennis Rodman is a poor role model. However, because this is a conclusion that the reader has come to of his or her free will, the argument is far more effective.

A simile is a comparison of two seemingly dissimilar objects. Its purpose is to make a unique connection between things which appear essentially unlike, usually through using the words "like" or "as." Simile is an important component of effective writing, as it provides the writer with a creative means of description.

The following paragraph, written by a student writer, makes fairly effective use of sensory detail. However, visual imagery could be greatly improved through the addition of simile.

Example: Paragraph Without Simile

Grandmother Workman lurched over and grabbed the pale skin of Randal's thin forearm with her leathery hand. Randal looked ahead toward the winding spiral staircase, fidgeted with a small hole in his baseball jersey, and bit his lip. His mouth filled with the sweet, coppery taste of blood as she leaned in closely toward him, breathing her hot breath on the damp hair at the base of his neck. She smelled of wet cigarettes and bacon. As they slowly climbed the long, steep staircase, the only sound was his grandmothers' labored breathing and the mournful creak of the wooden stairs.

Example: Paragraph With Simile

Comment: With the addition of simile, the descriptive details in the text are much more concrete. The unusual comparisons of a woman's arm to electrical wiring and to a relief map make the writing stand out. Simile allows the reader is able to create a visual image of a much more unique character.

Additional Resources

Bernays, Anne and Pamela Painter. What If?: Writing Exercises For Fiction Writers . New York: Harper Collins College Publishers, 1995.

Brown, Renni and Dave King. Self-Editing For Fiction Writers . New York: Harper Perenneal, 1993.

Goldberg, Natalie. Wild Mind . New York: Bantam Books, 1990.

Goldberg, Natalie. Writing Down the Bones .Boston: Shambhala, 1986.

Grambs, David. The Random House Dictionary For Writers and Readers . New York: Random House, 1990.

Jason, Philip J. and Allan B. Lefcowitz. Creative Writer's Handbook . Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall, 1994.

Newlove, Donald. Painted Paragraphs . New York: Henry Holt and Company, 1993.

Reid, Stephen. The Prentice Hall Guide For College Writers . Engelwood Cliffs, NJ: Simon and Schuster, 1995.

Stare, Jerome. Making Shapely Fiction . New York: Dell Publishing, 1991.

Sample Text: by T. Alex Myers, CSU student.

Myers, Tiffany. (1998). Using Descriptive Detail. Writing@CSU . Colorado State University. https://writing.colostate.edu/guides/guide.cfm?guideid=91

• The Beauty of Descriptive Poems about Nature

Nature has always been a captivating muse for poets throughout the ages. Its majestic landscapes, tranquil waters, and vibrant flora and fauna have inspired countless verses. Descriptive poems about nature allow poets to capture the essence of the natural world, transporting readers to serene and awe-inspiring settings. In this article, we will explore the beauty of these poems and delve into some exceptional examples.

The Power of Descriptive Language

Connecting with nature, preserving nature's fragility.

Descriptive poems about nature are known for their ability to paint vivid images in the reader's mind. Through the skillful use of descriptive language and sensory details, poets are able to convey the beauty and grandeur of the natural world. They use imagery, metaphors, and similes to engage our senses and evoke emotions.

One such example is William Wordsworth's timeless poem "Daffodils." In this poem, Wordsworth beautifully describes a field of daffodils, igniting our imagination with his rich language. He writes:

I wandered lonely as a cloud That floats on high o'er vales and hills, When all at once I saw a crowd, A host, of golden daffodils; Beside the lake, beneath the trees, Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

Through his choice of words, Wordsworth transports us to that picturesque scene, allowing us to experience the breathtaking beauty of the daffodils ourselves.

Descriptive poems about nature not only allow us to appreciate the external beauty of the natural world but also provide an opportunity for introspection and personal connection. These poems often reflect on the deeper meanings and lessons that can be learned from our surroundings.

Mary Oliver, a celebrated American poet, beautifully captures this sense of connection in her poem "Wild Geese." Her words resonate with readers, reminding us of our place in the world and the importance of embracing our natural surroundings. Oliver writes:

You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees For a hundred miles through the desert, repenting. You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves.

Through her descriptive language, Oliver encourages us to let go of our worries and immerse ourselves in the simplicity and authenticity of nature.

Descriptive poems about nature also serve as a reminder of the fragility of our natural environment. Poets often highlight the need for conservation and the detrimental impact of human activities on the ecosystem.

Robert Frost, a renowned American poet, skillfully portrays this message in his poem "The Road Not Taken." Although not explicitly about nature, Frost's poem presents us with a metaphorical fork in the road, symbolizing the choices we make in life. Frost writes:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

Through these lines, Frost encourages us to make conscious decisions that prioritize the preservation of our natural world, urging us to take the path less trodden to protect the beauty around us.

Descriptive poems about nature have a unique ability to transport readers to serene landscapes and evoke emotions. Through the masterful use of descriptive language, poets bring the beauty of nature to life, allowing us to connect with our surroundings on a deeper level. Whether they inspire us to appreciate nature's wonders, find solace in its tranquility, or take action to protect it, these poems have forever etched the natural world into the realm of literature. So, next time you find yourself yearning for a glimpse of nature's splendor, turn to the pages of a descriptive poem and let your imagination soar.

• Exploring the Mystical World of Short Poems about Islands
• Spanish Poems About Christmas: Capturing the Festive Spirit with Words

Entradas Relacionadas

Short Poems about Ireland: Capturing the Emerald Isle in Verse

Spanish Poems About Flowers: Celebrating the Beauty of Nature

Zen Poems About Life: Finding Serenity in Simplicity

Poetry Buzz: Exploring Bees through Kindergarten Verse

Ocean Poems: Capturing the Essence of Life's Journey

Simile Poems About Nature: Capturing the Beauty of the Natural World

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• Knowledge Base
• How to write a descriptive essay | Example & tips

How to Write a Descriptive Essay | Example & Tips

Published on July 30, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on August 14, 2023.

A descriptive essay gives a vivid, detailed description of something—generally a place or object, but possibly something more abstract like an emotion. This type of essay , like the narrative essay , is more creative than most academic writing .

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Table of contents

Descriptive essay topics, tips for writing descriptively, descriptive essay example, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about descriptive essays.

When you are assigned a descriptive essay, you’ll normally be given a specific prompt or choice of prompts. They will often ask you to describe something from your own experience.

• Describe a place you love to spend time in.
• Describe an object that has sentimental value for you.

You might also be asked to describe something outside your own experience, in which case you’ll have to use your imagination.

• Describe the experience of a soldier in the trenches of World War I.
• Describe what it might be like to live on another planet.

Sometimes you’ll be asked to describe something more abstract, like an emotion.

If you’re not given a specific prompt, try to think of something you feel confident describing in detail. Think of objects and places you know well, that provoke specific feelings or sensations, and that you can describe in an interesting way.

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The key to writing an effective descriptive essay is to find ways of bringing your subject to life for the reader. You’re not limited to providing a literal description as you would be in more formal essay types.

Make use of figurative language, sensory details, and strong word choices to create a memorable description.

Use figurative language

Figurative language consists of devices like metaphor and simile that use words in non-literal ways to create a memorable effect. This is essential in a descriptive essay; it’s what gives your writing its creative edge and makes your description unique.

Take the following description of a park.

This tells us something about the place, but it’s a bit too literal and not likely to be memorable.

If we want to make the description more likely to stick in the reader’s mind, we can use some figurative language.

Here we have used a simile to compare the park to a face and the trees to facial hair. This is memorable because it’s not what the reader expects; it makes them look at the park from a different angle.

You don’t have to fill every sentence with figurative language, but using these devices in an original way at various points throughout your essay will keep the reader engaged and convey your unique perspective on your subject.

Use your senses

Another key aspect of descriptive writing is the use of sensory details. This means referring not only to what something looks like, but also to smell, sound, touch, and taste.

Obviously not all senses will apply to every subject, but it’s always a good idea to explore what’s interesting about your subject beyond just what it looks like.

Even when your subject is more abstract, you might find a way to incorporate the senses more metaphorically, as in this descriptive essay about fear.

Choose the right words

Writing descriptively involves choosing your words carefully. The use of effective adjectives is important, but so is your choice of adverbs , verbs , and even nouns.

It’s easy to end up using clichéd phrases—“cold as ice,” “free as a bird”—but try to reflect further and make more precise, original word choices. Clichés provide conventional ways of describing things, but they don’t tell the reader anything about your unique perspective on what you’re describing.

Try looking over your sentences to find places where a different word would convey your impression more precisely or vividly. Using a thesaurus can help you find alternative word choices.

• My cat runs across the garden quickly and jumps onto the fence to watch it from above.
• My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above.

However, exercise care in your choices; don’t just look for the most impressive-looking synonym you can find for every word. Overuse of a thesaurus can result in ridiculous sentences like this one:

• My feline perambulates the allotment proficiently and capers atop the palisade to regard it from aloft.

An example of a short descriptive essay, written in response to the prompt “Describe a place you love to spend time in,” is shown below.

Hover over different parts of the text to see how a descriptive essay works.

On Sunday afternoons I like to spend my time in the garden behind my house. The garden is narrow but long, a corridor of green extending from the back of the house, and I sit on a lawn chair at the far end to read and relax. I am in my small peaceful paradise: the shade of the tree, the feel of the grass on my feet, the gentle activity of the fish in the pond beside me.

My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above. From his perch he can watch over his little kingdom and keep an eye on the neighbours. He does this until the barking of next door’s dog scares him from his post and he bolts for the cat flap to govern from the safety of the kitchen.

With that, I am left alone with the fish, whose whole world is the pond by my feet. The fish explore the pond every day as if for the first time, prodding and inspecting every stone. I sometimes feel the same about sitting here in the garden; I know the place better than anyone, but whenever I return I still feel compelled to pay attention to all its details and novelties—a new bird perched in the tree, the growth of the grass, and the movement of the insects it shelters…

Sitting out in the garden, I feel serene. I feel at home. And yet I always feel there is more to discover. The bounds of my garden may be small, but there is a whole world contained within it, and it is one I will never get tired of inhabiting.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

If you’re not given a specific prompt for your descriptive essay , think about places and objects you know well, that you can think of interesting ways to describe, or that have strong personal significance for you.

The best kind of object for a descriptive essay is one specific enough that you can describe its particular features in detail—don’t choose something too vague or general.

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A Full Guide to Writing a Perfect Poem Analysis Essay

01 October, 2020

14 minutes read

Author:  Elizabeth Brown

Poem analysis is one of the most complicated essay types. It requires the utmost creativity and dedication. Even those who regularly attend a literary class and have enough experience in poem analysis essay elaboration may face considerable difficulties while dealing with the particular poem. The given article aims to provide the detailed guidelines on how to write a poem analysis, elucidate the main principles of writing the essay of the given type, and share with you the handy tips that will help you get the highest score for your poetry analysis. In addition to developing analysis skills, you would be able to take advantage of the poetry analysis essay example to base your poetry analysis essay on, as well as learn how to find a way out in case you have no motivation and your creative assignment must be presented on time.

What Is a Poetry Analysis Essay?

A poetry analysis essay is a type of creative write-up that implies reviewing a poem from different perspectives by dealing with its structural, artistic, and functional pieces. Since the poetry expresses very complicated feelings that may have different meanings depending on the backgrounds of both author and reader, it would not be enough just to focus on the text of the poem you are going to analyze. Poetry has a lot more complex structure and cannot be considered without its special rhythm, images, as well as implied and obvious sense.

While analyzing the poem, the students need to do in-depth research as to its content, taking into account the effect the poetry has or may have on the readers.

Preparing for the Poetry Analysis Writing

The process of preparation for the poem analysis essay writing is almost as important as writing itself. Without completing these stages, you may be at risk of failing your creative assignment. Learn them carefully to remember once and for good.

Thoroughly read the poem several times

The rereading of the poem assigned for analysis will help to catch its concepts and ideas. You will have a possibility to define the rhythm of the poem, its type, and list the techniques applied by the author.

While identifying the type of the poem, you need to define whether you are dealing with:

• Lyric poem – the one that elucidates feelings, experiences, and the emotional state of the author. It is usually short and doesn’t contain any narration;
• Limerick – consists of 5 lines, the first, second, and fifth of which rhyme with one another;
• Sonnet – a poem consisting of 14 lines characterized by an iambic pentameter. William Shakespeare wrote sonnets which have made him famous;
• Ode – 10-line poem aimed at praising someone or something;
• Haiku – a short 3-line poem originated from Japan. It reflects the deep sense hidden behind the ordinary phenomena and events of the physical world;
• Free-verse – poetry with no rhyme.

The type of the poem usually affects its structure and content, so it is important to be aware of all the recognized kinds to set a proper beginning to your poetry analysis.

Find out more about the poem background

Find as much information as possible about the author of the poem, the cultural background of the period it was written in, preludes to its creation, etc. All these data will help you get a better understanding of the poem’s sense and explain much to you in terms of the concepts the poem contains.

Define a subject matter of the poem

This is one of the most challenging tasks since as a rule, the subject matter of the poem isn’t clearly stated by the poets. They don’t want the readers to know immediately what their piece of writing is about and suggest everyone find something different between the lines.

What is the subject matter? In a nutshell, it is the main idea of the poem. Usually, a poem may have a couple of subjects, that is why it is important to list each of them.

In order to correctly identify the goals of a definite poem, you would need to dive into the in-depth research.

Check the historical background of the poetry. The author might have been inspired to write a poem based on some events that occurred in those times or people he met. The lines you analyze may be generated by his reaction to some epoch events. All this information can be easily found online.

Choose poem theories you will support

In the variety of ideas the poem may convey, it is important to stick to only several most important messages you think the author wanted to share with the readers. Each of the listed ideas must be supported by the corresponding evidence as proof of your opinion.

The poetry analysis essay format allows elaborating on several theses that have the most value and weight. Try to build your writing not only on the pure facts that are obvious from the context but also your emotions and feelings the analyzed lines provoke in you.

How to Choose a Poem to Analyze?

If you are free to choose the piece of writing you will base your poem analysis essay on, it is better to select the one you are already familiar with. This may be your favorite poem or one that you have read and analyzed before. In case you face difficulties choosing the subject area of a particular poem, then the best way will be to focus on the idea you feel most confident about. In such a way, you would be able to elaborate on the topic and describe it more precisely.

Now, when you are familiar with the notion of the poetry analysis essay, it’s high time to proceed to poem analysis essay outline. Follow the steps mentioned below to ensure a brilliant structure to your creative assignment.

Best Poem Analysis Essay Topics

• Mother To Son Poem Analysis
• We Real Cool Poem Analysis
• Invictus Poem Analysis
• Richard Cory Poem Analysis
• Ozymandias Poem Analysis
• Barbie Doll Poem Analysis
• Caged Bird Poem Analysis
• Ulysses Poem Analysis
• Dover Beach Poem Analysis
• Annabelle Lee Poem Analysis
• Daddy Poem Analysis
• The Raven Poem Analysis
• The Second Coming Poem Analysis
• Still I Rise Poem Analysis
• If Poem Analysis
• Fire And Ice Poem Analysis
• My Papa’S Waltz Poem Analysis
• Harlem Poem Analysis
• Kubla Khan Poem Analysis
• I Too Poem Analysis
• The Juggler Poem Analysis
• The Fish Poem Analysis
• Jabberwocky Poem Analysis
• Charge Of The Light Brigade Poem Analysis
• The Road Not Taken Poem Analysis
• Landscape With The Fall Of Icarus Poem Analysis
• The History Teacher Poem Analysis
• One Art Poem Analysis
• The Wanderer Poem Analysis
• We Wear The Mask Poem Analysis
• There Will Come Soft Rains Poem Analysis
• Digging Poem Analysis
• The Highwayman Poem Analysis
• The Tyger Poem Analysis
• London Poem Analysis
• Sympathy Poem Analysis
• I Am Joaquin Poem Analysis
• This Is Just To Say Poem Analysis
• Sex Without Love Poem Analysis
• Strange Fruit Poem Analysis
• Dulce Et Decorum Est Poem Analysis
• Emily Dickinson Poem Analysis
• The Flea Poem Analysis
• The Lamb Poem Analysis
• Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night Poem Analysis
• My Last Duchess Poetry Analysis

Poem Analysis Essay Outline

As has already been stated, a poetry analysis essay is considered one of the most challenging tasks for the students. Despite the difficulties you may face while dealing with it, the structure of the given type of essay is quite simple. It consists of the introduction, body paragraphs, and the conclusion. In order to get a better understanding of the poem analysis essay structure, check the brief guidelines below.

Introduction

This will be the first section of your essay. The main purpose of the introductory paragraph is to give a reader an idea of what the essay is about and what theses it conveys. The introduction should start with the title of the essay and end with the thesis statement.

The main goal of the introduction is to make readers feel intrigued about the whole concept of the essay and serve as a hook to grab their attention. Include some interesting information about the author, the historical background of the poem, some poem trivia, etc. There is no need to make the introduction too extensive. On the contrary, it should be brief and logical.

Body Paragraphs

The body section should form the main part of poetry analysis. Make sure you have determined a clear focus for your analysis and are ready to elaborate on the main message and meaning of the poem. Mention the tone of the poetry, its speaker, try to describe the recipient of the poem’s idea. Don’t forget to identify the poetic devices and language the author uses to reach the main goals. Describe the imagery and symbolism of the poem, its sound and rhythm.

Try not to stick to too many ideas in your body section, since it may make your essay difficult to understand and too chaotic to perceive. Generalization, however, is also not welcomed. Try to be specific in the description of your perspective.

Make sure the transitions between your paragraphs are smooth and logical to make your essay flow coherent and easy to catch.

In a nutshell, the essay conclusion is a paraphrased thesis statement. Mention it again but in different words to remind the readers of the main purpose of your essay. Sum up the key claims and stress the most important information. The conclusion cannot contain any new ideas and should be used to create a strong impact on the reader. This is your last chance to share your opinion with the audience and convince them your essay is worth readers’ attention.

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Poem Analysis Essay Examples 

A good poem analysis essay example may serve as a real magic wand to your creative assignment. You may take a look at the structure the other essay authors have used, follow their tone, and get a great share of inspiration and motivation.

Check several poetry analysis essay examples that may be of great assistance:

• https://study.com/academy/lesson/poetry-analysis-essay-example-for-english-literature.html
• https://www.slideshare.net/mariefincher/poetry-analysis-essay

Writing Tips for a Poetry Analysis Essay

If you read carefully all the instructions on how to write a poetry analysis essay provided above, you have probably realized that this is not the easiest assignment on Earth. However, you cannot fail and should try your best to present a brilliant essay to get the highest score. To make your life even easier, check these handy tips on how to analysis poetry with a few little steps.

• In case you have a chance to choose a poem for analysis by yourself, try to focus on one you are familiar with, you are interested in, or your favorite one. The writing process will be smooth and easy in case you are working on the task you truly enjoy.
• Before you proceed to the analysis itself, read the poem out loud to your colleague or just to yourself. It will help you find out some hidden details and senses that may result in new ideas.
• Always check the meaning of words you don’t know. Poetry is quite a tricky phenomenon where a single word or phrase can completely change the meaning of the whole piece. 
• Bother to double check if the conclusion of your essay is based on a single idea and is logically linked to the main body. Such an approach will demonstrate your certain focus and clearly elucidate your views. 
• Read between the lines. Poetry is about senses and emotions – it rarely contains one clearly stated subject matter. Describe the hidden meanings and mention the feelings this has provoked in you. Try to elaborate a full picture that would be based on what is said and what is meant.

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A Guide to Descriptive Writing

by Melissa Donovan | Jan 7, 2021 | Creative Writing | 9 comments

What is descriptive writing?

Writing description is a necessary skill for most writers. Whether we’re writing an essay, a story, or a poem, we usually reach a point where we need to describe something. In fiction, we describe settings and characters. In poetry, we describe scenes, experiences, and emotions. In creative nonfiction, we describe reality. Descriptive writing is especially important for speculative fiction writers and poets. If you’ve created a fantasy world, then you’ll need to deftly describe it to readers; Lewis Carroll not only described Wonderland  (aff link); he also described the fantastical creatures that inhabited it.

But many writers are challenged by description writing, and many readers find it boring to read — when it’s not crafted skillfully.

However, I think it’s safe to say that technology has spoiled us. Thanks to photos and videos, we’ve become increasingly visual, which means it’s getting harder to use words to describe something, especially if it only exists in our imaginations.

What is Descriptive Writing?

One might say that descriptive writing is the art of painting a picture with words. But descriptive writing goes beyond visuals. Descriptive writing hits all the senses; we describe how things look, sound, smell, taste, and feel (their tactile quality).

The term descriptive writing can mean a few different things:

• The act of writing description ( I’m doing some descriptive writing ).
• A descriptive essay is short-form prose that is meant to describe something in detail; it can describe a person, place, event, object, or anything else.
• Description as part of a larger work: This is the most common kind of descriptive writing. It is usually a sentence or paragraph (sometimes multiple paragraphs) that provide description, usually to help the reader visualize what’s happening, where it’s happening, or how it’s happening. It’s most commonly used to describe a setting or a character. An example would be a section of text within a novel that establishes the setting by describing a room or a passage that introduces a character with a physical description.
• Writing that is descriptive (or vivid) — an author’s style: Some authors weave description throughout their prose and verse, interspersing it through the dialogue and action. It’s a style of writing that imparts description without using large blocks of text that are explicitly focused on description.
• Description is integral in poetry writing. Poetry emphasizes imagery, and imagery is rendered in writing via description, so descriptive writing is a crucial skill for most poets.

Depending on what you write, you’ve probably experimented with one of more of these types of descriptive writing, maybe all of them.

Can you think of any other types of descriptive writing that aren’t listed here?

How Much Description is Too Much?

Classic literature was dense with description whereas modern literature usually keeps description to a minimum.

Compare the elaborate descriptions in J.R.R. Tolkien’s  Lord of the Rings  trilogy  with the descriptions in J.K. Rowling’s  Harry Potter series  (aff links). Both series relied on description to help readers visualize an imagined, fantastical world, but Rowling did not use her precious writing space to describe standard settings whereas Tolkien frequently paused all action and spent pages describing a single landscape.

This isn’t unique to Tolkien and Rowling; if you compare most literature from the beginning of of the 20th century and earlier to today’s written works, you’ll see that we just don’t dedicate much time and space to description anymore.

I think this radical change in how we approach description is directly tied to the wide availability of film, television, and photography. Let’s say you were living in the 19th century, writing a story about a tropical island for an audience of northern, urban readers. You would be fairly certain that most of your readers had never seen such an island and had no idea what it looked like. To give your audience a full sense of your story’s setting, you’d need pages of detail describing the lush jungle, sandy beaches, and warm waters.

Nowadays, we all know what a tropical island looks like, thanks to the wide availability of media. Even if you’ve never been to such an island, surely you’ve seen one on TV. This might explain why few books on the craft of writing address descriptive writing. The focus is usually on other elements, like language, character, plot, theme, and structure.

For contemporary writers, the trick is to make the description as precise and detailed as possible while keeping it to a minimum. Most readers want characters and action with just enough description so that they can imagine the story as it’s unfolding.

If you’ve ever encountered a story that paused to provide head-to-toe descriptions along with detailed backstories of every character upon their introduction into the narrative, you know just how grating description can be when executed poorly.

However, it’s worth noting that a skilled writer can roll out descriptions that are riveting to read. Sometimes they’re riveting because they’re integrated seamlessly with the action and dialogue; other times, the description is deftly crafted and engaging on its own. In fact, an expert descriptive writer can keep readers glued through multiple pages of description.

Descriptive Writing Tips

I’ve encountered descriptive writing so smooth and seamless that I easily visualized what was happening without even noticing that I was reading description. Some authors craft descriptions that are so lovely, I do notice — but in a good way. Some of them are so compelling that I pause to read them again.

On the other hand, poorly crafted descriptions can really impede a reader’s experience. Description doesn’t work if it’s unclear, verbose, or bland. Most readers prefer action and dialogue to lengthy descriptions, so while a paragraph here and there can certainly help readers better visualize what’s happening, pages and pages of description can increase the risk that they’ll set your work aside and never pick it up again. There are exceptions to every rule, so the real trick is to know when lengthy descriptions are warranted and when they’re just boring.

Here are some general tips for descriptive writing:

• Use distinct descriptions that stand out and are memorable. For example, don’t write that a character is five foot two with brown hair and blue eyes. Give the reader something to remember. Say the character is short with mousy hair and sky-blue eyes.
• Make description active: Consider the following description of a room: There was a bookshelf in the corner. A desk sat under the window. The walls were beige, and the floor was tiled. That’s boring. Try something like this: A massive oak desk sat below a large picture window and beside a shelf overflowing with books. Hardcovers, paperbacks, and binders were piled on the dingy tiled floor in messy stacks.  In the second example, words like  overflowing  and  piled are active.
• Weave description through the narrative: Sometimes a character enters a room and looks around, so the narrative needs to pause to describe what the character sees. Other times, description can be threaded through the narrative. For example, instead of pausing to describe a character, engage that character in dialogue with another character. Use the characters’ thoughts and the dialogue tags to reveal description: He stared at her flowing, auburn curls, which reminded him of his mother’s hair. “Where were you?” he asked, shifting his green eyes across the restaurant to where a customer was hassling one of the servers.

Simple descriptions are surprisingly easy to execute. All you have to do is look at something (or imagine it) and write what you see. But well-crafted descriptions require writers to pay diligence to word choice, to describe only those elements that are most important, and to use engaging language to paint a picture in the reader’s mind. Instead of spending several sentences describing a character’s height, weight, age, hair color, eye color, and clothing, a few, choice details will often render a more vivid image for the reader: Red hair framed her round, freckled face like a spray of flames. This only reveals three descriptive details: red hair, a round face, and freckles. Yet it paints more vivid picture than a statistical head-to-toe rundown:  She was five foot three and no more than a hundred and ten pounds with red hair, blue eyes, and a round, freckled face.

10 descriptive writing practices.

How to Practice Writing Description

Here are some descriptive writing activities that will inspire you while providing opportunities to practice writing description. If you don’t have much experience with descriptive writing, you may find that your first few attempts are flat and boring. If you can’t keep readers engaged, they’ll wander off. Work at crafting descriptions that are compelling and mesmerizing.

• Go to one of your favorite spots and write a description of the setting: it could be your bedroom, a favorite coffee shop, or a local park. Leave people, dialogue, and action out of it. Just focus on explaining what the space looks like.
• Who is your favorite character from the movies? Describe the character from head to toe. Show the reader not only what the character looks like, but also how the character acts. Do this without including action or dialogue. Remember: description only!
• Forty years ago we didn’t have cell phones or the internet. Now we have cell phones that can access the internet. Think of a device or gadget that we’ll have forty years from now and describe it.
• Since modern fiction is light on description, many young and new writers often fail to include details, even when the reader needs them. Go through one of your writing projects and make sure elements that readers may not be familiar with are adequately described.
• Sometimes in a narrative, a little description provides respite from all the action and dialogue. Make a list of things from a story you’re working on (gadgets, characters, settings, etc.), and for each one, write a short description of no more than a hundred words.
• As mentioned, Tolkien often spent pages describing a single landscape. Choose one of your favorite pieces of classic literature, find a long passage of description, and rewrite it. Try to cut the descriptive word count in half.
• When you read a book, use a highlighter to mark sentences and paragraphs that contain description. Don’t highlight every adjective and adverb. Look for longer passages that are dedicated to description.
• Write a description for a child. Choose something reasonably difficult, like the solar system. How do you describe it in such a way that a child understands how he or she fits into it?
• Most writers dream of someday writing a book. Describe your book cover.
• Write a one-page description of yourself.

If you have any descriptive writing practices to add to this list, feel free to share them in the comments.

Descriptive Writing

Does descriptive writing come easily to you, or do you struggle with it? Do you put much thought into how you write description? What types of descriptive writing have you tackled — descriptive essays, blocks of description within larger texts, or descriptions woven throughout a narrative? Share your tips for descriptive writing by leaving a comment, and keep writing!

Further Reading: Abolish the Adverbs , Making the Right Word Choices for Better Writing , and Writing Description in Fiction .

I find descriptions easier when first beginning a scene. Other ones I struggle with. Yes, intertwining them with dialogue does help a lot.

I have the opposite experience. I tend to dive right into action and dialogue when I first start a scene.

I came across this article at just the right time. I am just starting to write a short story. This will change the way I describe characters in my story.

Thank you for this. R.G. Ramsey

You’re welcome!

Great tips and how to practise and improve our descriptive writing skills. Thank you for sharing.

You’re welcome, Bella.

Hello Melissa

I have read many of your articles about different aspects of writing and have enjoyed all of them. What you said here, I agree with, with the exception of #7. That is one point that I dispute and don’t understand the reason why anyone would do this, though I’ve seen books that had things like that done to them.

To me, a book is something to be treasured, loved and taken care of. It deserves my respect because I’m sure the author poured their heart and soul into its creation. Marking it up that way is nothing short of defacing it. A book or story is a form of art, so should a person mark over a picture by Rembrandt or any other famous painter? You’re a very talented author, so why would you want someone to mark through the words you had spent considerable time and effort agonizing over, while searching for the best words to convey your thoughts?

If I want to remember some section or point the author is making, then I’ll take a pen and paper and record the page number and perhaps the first few words of that particular section. I’ve found that writing a note this way helps me remember it better. This is then placed inside the cover for future reference. If someone did what you’ve suggested to a book of mine, I’d be madder than a ‘wet hen’, and that person would certainly be told what I thought of them.

In any of the previous articles you’ve written, you’ve brought up some excellent points which I’ve tried to incorporate in my writing. Keep up the good work as I know your efforts have helped me, and I’m sure other authors as well.

Hi Stanley. Thanks so much for sharing your point of view. I appreciate and value it.

Marking up a book is a common practice, especially in academia. Putting notes in margins, underlining, highlighting, and tagging pages with bookmarks is standard. Personally, I mark up nonfiction paperbacks, but I never mark up fiction paperbacks or any hardcovers (not since college).

I completely respect your right to keep your books in pristine condition. And years ago, when I started college, I felt exactly the same way. I was horrified that people (instructors and professors!) would fill their books with ugly yellow highlighting and other markips. But I quickly realized that this was shortsighted.

Consider an old paperback that is worn and dog-eared. With one look, you know this book has been read many times and it’s probably loved. It’s like the Velveteen Rabbit of books. I see markups as the same — that someone was engaging with the book and trying to understand it on a deeper level, which is not disrespectful. It’s something to be celebrated.

Sometimes we place too much value on the book as a physical object rather than what’s inside. I appreciate a beautiful book as much as anyone but what really matters to me is the information or experience that it contains. I often read on a Kindle. Sometimes I listen to audio books. There is no physical book. The experience is not lessened.

I understand where you’re coming from. I used to feel the same way, but my mind was changed. I’m not trying to change yours, but I hope you’ll understand.

You’ve provided some great information and advice. One thing I might add–it is helpful to consider the POV character. For example, what will they notice in a restaurant? A police officer may notice the placement of the exits, the tattooed man carrying a side-arm, the security cameras on the ceiling, etc. The descriptive items he would notice would be very different from those of an elderly grandmother or a fifteen-year-old teenaged girl.

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Need editing and proofreading services, guide to a perfect descriptive essay [examples & outline included].

• Tags: Academic Writing , Essay , Essay Writing

A descriptive essay is the most creative of all essay types. It involves the use of sensory descriptors and impactful narratives to depict an object, person, or even something abstract like an emotion. This type of essay is administered by teachers and professors to gauge your understanding of language. 

In this article, we will guide you through everything there is to know about descriptive essays. This includes the descriptive essay definition, some descriptive essay topics, and various examples. To help you in your essay-writing process, we have also included an outline of a descriptive essay. 

But let’s start from the beginning: What is a descriptive essay?

Perfect your essay with our expert editing services today! Get started

What is a descriptive essay?

A descriptive essay is a highly creative form of writing which describes an object, person, location, experience, emotion, or situation. It makes use of vivid imagery and different figures of speech to create a beautiful and immersive experience for the reader.

This type of essay is often assigned in creative writing courses in schools or colleges. It does not involve the presentation of arguments or information. It just involves creatively expressing yourself with the help of various language devices. 

Unlike a narrative essay which involves telling a story, a descriptive essay only focuses on one particular object or idea. Although most essay topics are non-fictional, descriptive essay topics can either be fictional or non-fictional. 

Let us look at a few examples of topics for a descriptive essay.

Descriptive essay topics

Since writing a descriptive essay is a creative form of writing, it can cover a wide range of topics. These topics can range from practical experiences such as “My Grandpa’s Couch” to thought experiments such as “Living in a world with no concept of time”. 

Here are a few more descriptive essay topics:

• Exploring a ghost town
• A starry night in the mountains
• A day in the life of an explorer
• Trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Wandering through the Swiss meadows 
• My childhood home
• Memories of grandma’s farm
• Experiencing euphoria for the first time
• My description of utopia
• My most treasured possession

Descriptive essay structure

Since descriptive essays are highly creative in nature, the descriptive essay structure is much more fluid as compared to most academic essay types. Although they do follow a general structure, there is no specific descriptive essay format. It serves more as a guideline than a hard and fast rule. 

Descriptive essays generally don’t revolve around proving a point or making an argument. The goal is to simply provide a vivid and detailed description of a particular subject.   

Let’s study the basic structure of a descriptive essay:

1. Introduction

Wondering how to start a descriptive essay? Like all essay types, the introduction of a descriptive essay is composed of three key elements: A hook, some background information, and a thesis statement. 

However, the thesis statement of a descriptive essay is different from the thesis statements of most academic essays. It simply makes a claim regarding the subject of your choosing.

Here’s an example of a descriptive essay introduction: 

• Background information
• Thesis statement

The last day of school—a momentous occasion that marks the culmination of a year’s worth of hard work and growth. Excitement hangs in the air as students gather for one final day of shared experiences and unforgettable memories. The hallways buzz with chatter and laughter, mingling with the anticipation of summer freedom. It’s a day of mixed emotions, as the promise of lazy days ahead clashes with the bittersweet farewell to teachers and classmates who have become like family. The last day of school is a mosaic of emotions, a snapshot of a moment that holds the weight of an entire academic journey, and a prelude to the new adventures that lie just beyond the horizon.

2. Body paragraph 

A descriptive essay usually has three body paragraphs. However, the length and number of paragraphs may vary depending on the complexity and scope of your essay topic. 

A body paragraph comprises of a topic sentence that focuses on a particular aspect of the subject. The topic sentence is elaborated upon by sensory, contextual, and emotional descriptors. Each paragraph ends with a transition sentence that provides context for the next paragraph.  

Let’s understand this better with the help of an example: 

• Topic sentence
• Description
• Transition sentence

Classrooms brim with finality and accomplishment. Doodles and scribbles now grace once-neat desks, testifying to idle daydreams and shared laughter. Colorful displays and academic achievements adorn the walls, silently witnessing each student’s growth. Empty lockers echo the countless exchanges and whispered secrets they once held. Yearbooks circulate like cherished artifacts, pages filled with smiling faces and heartfelt messages. Laughter and hugs fill the hallways as friends make promises to keep in touch and embark on summer adventures. The last day of school etches indelible memories, a tapestry of nostalgia and celebration that encapsulates the joy, camaraderie, and growth of their academic journey.

3. Conclusion

The conclusion of your essay should begin with the restatement of your thesis statement along with its broader implications. You can then provide a quick summary of all the important aspects mentioned in the body paragraphs. 

Finally, you can end your essay with a powerful statement or a clincher. This can include anything from a powerful lesson to a thought-provoking quote. The goal is to leave the reader with something to think about.

Here’s an example: 

• Restated thesis statement
• Summary of body paragraphs
• Concluding statement

As the final bell echoes through the hallways and students scatter in all directions, school leaves behind a lingering sense of closure and anticipation. It is a day filled with mixed emotions—a blend of nostalgia for the memories created, gratitude for the knowledge gained, and excitement for the new chapter that awaits. The last day of school symbolizes a milestone in each student’s journey, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. It is a time to reflect on the growth, challenges overcome, and friendships forged along the way. The last day of school is not an end, but rather a stepping stone towards new horizons, where each student will continue to learn, explore, and thrive.

Now that we’ve understood how to structure a descriptive essay, let’s figure out how to write it!

How to write a descriptive essay

In order to write a perfect descriptive essay you must effectively make use of multiple creative writing devices. These creative writing devices include figures of speech, imagery, sensory and emotional descriptors, as well as evocative language.  

If you find the essay writing process challenging, we’re here to equip you with essential tips on writing a descriptive essay. Let’s take a look at how to write a descriptive essay: 

1. Use figures of speech

Literary devices such as similies, metaphors, and imagery are creative devices that describe an object or a person in a figurative sense. These creative devices add an element of interest to your essay, making it more vivid, vibrant, and colorful. 

The use of figures of speech can turn an otherwise boring piece of writing into a masterpiece. Take a look at the following example:

On that spot stood an old banyan tree with thick bark and intertwining branches.

Although this example is a good start, it can be made much more interesting with the use of figures of speech.

On that spot stood an old banyan tree with its resolve as strong as iron. Its arms intertwined as they reached for the skies, yearning for the sun.  

The use of literary devices such as personification and metaphor makes the banyan tree in the second example come to life. This is how you can make your writing more vivid, descriptive, and poetic.

2. Use your senses

Sensory descriptors are one of the most important aspects of a descriptive essay. The key is to make the reader experience what you’ve experienced. This means appealing to all five senses of the reader. 

Although the visual aspect is important, you should also focus on how something sounds, feels, and smells. The experience of touching, smelling, or feeling something is more evocative than simply viewing it. 

Some sensory descriptors are used in a literal sense:

The smell of rain in July takes me back to my childhood. The pitter-patter reminds me of my mother’s footsteps, bringing us delicious snacks. 

They can also be used metaphorically:

The beautiful, cold gaze of the moon stunned us all.

3. Use evocative language

It is a good idea to use strong, evocative language that conveys an intense action or emotion. Creative use of words is an important factor in writing a descriptive essay since passive language leads to a dull, boring essay.  Let’s take a look at the following sentences: 

The 100-meter race was completed by Usain Bolt in under 10 seconds.

Usian Bolt whizzed through the 100-meter race in under 10 seconds!

The use of the word “completed” indicates no action and the use of passive voice makes the example dull. On the other hand, the phrase “whizzed through” indicates speed and intensity which makes the second example much more interesting to read.

Now that we’ve understood the different methods of writing a descriptive essay, let’s understand its outline.

Descriptive essay outline

The outline of a descriptive essay is less structured compared to most academic essay types. It merely serves as a guideline that you can use to flesh out your essay. It also helps you develop a coherent structure and logical flow for your topic sentences. 

If you’re not familiar with creating an essay outline, you can take help of essay outline generators . In order to help you further develop your essay, we’ve created an outline for your reference. The following descriptive essay outline revolves around the nostalgia experienced when going through an old diary.

Turning the Pages of Time

I. Introduction

A. Hook: Engaging opening sentence to grab the reader’s attention.

B. Background: Briefly explain the significance of finding your old diary and the memories associated with it.

C. Thesis statement: Clearly state the main idea of the essay, highlighting the emotional journey of rediscovering your old diary.

II. The discovery

A. Setting the scene: Describe the circumstances and location where you stumbled upon your old diary.

B. Initial emotions: Express the range of emotions that flooded your mind upon finding the diary.

C. Anticipation: Share the anticipation and curiosity about what lies within the pages of the diary.

III. The diary’s contents

A. Opening the pages: Describe the physical act of opening the diary and the smell and texture of the pages.

B. Memories unfolded: Reflect on the memories and experiences captured in the diary entries.

C. Emotional impact: Discuss the emotional response evoked by reading your own words and reliving past moments.

IV. Nostalgic reflections

A. Time traveling: Explain how reading the diary transported you back to the time and place when the entries were written.

B. Reconnecting with your past self: Describe the process of reconnecting with your past self and reevaluating your thoughts and experiences.

C. Lessons and insights: Highlight any valuable lessons, self-discoveries, or personal growth revealed through the diary’s contents.

V. Resonating with present self

A. Relevance to current life: Discuss how the insights and reflections from the diary still resonate with your present self.

B. Perspective shifts: Explain any shifts in perspective or newfound understanding that arose from revisiting the diary.

C. Appreciation: Express gratitude for the diary and its role in preserving and enriching your personal history.

VI. Cherishing the rediscovery

A. Preservation: Discuss the steps you took to preserve and protect the diary after finding it.

B. Future reflections: Share your intentions and plans for continuing the habit of journaling or preserving personal memories.

C. Closing thoughts: Reflect on the lasting impact of finding your old diary and the value of personal reflection and self-expression.

VII. Conclusion

A. Recap: Summarize the emotional journey of rediscovering your old diary.

B. Significance: Emphasize the personal and emotional significance of reconnecting with your past self through the diary.

C. Closing remarks: Conclude with a reflection on the power of personal artifacts and the importance of preserving one’s history.

Now that we have taken a look at the descriptive essay structure let’s look at an example.

Descriptive essay example

To help you better understand the process of descriptive essay writing, we’ve constructed an example. The following example revolves around an imaginary situation. It describes the writer’s voyage through the cosmos.

Exploring the Cosmos

As the rocket engines ignited, the powerful thrust propelled us into the vast expanse of space. The vibrations rattled through the cabin, merging with the palpable anticipation that filled the air. We were embarking on a remarkable journey through the cosmos, leaving behind the familiarity of Earth and venturing into the unknown.

Outside the small window, the twinkling stars grew brighter, casting a mesmerizing glow on the infinite darkness. The view was awe-inspiring as if we were floating amidst a sea of diamonds, each one beckoning us to explore its mysteries. The depth and grandeur of space stretched out before us, reminding us of the minuscule nature of our existence in the universe.

As we traversed through the cosmic void, weightlessness engulfed our bodies, releasing us from the Earth’s gravitational pull. Every movement became a ballet, effortlessly gliding from one corner of the spacecraft to another. The sensation was both exhilarating and disorienting as if the boundaries of physical limitations had dissolved.

The silence in space was profound, a symphony of tranquility. Without the interference of atmospheric sounds, we were left with the gentle hum of the spaceship’s systems and the rhythmic beating of our own hearts. It was a humbling reminder of the vastness and serenity that lay beyond our home planet.

Farther into our journey, celestial bodies came into view, captivating us with their sheer beauty. The fiery hues of neighboring planets illuminated the darkness, displaying their own distinct personalities. We marveled at the majestic rings of Saturn, a delicate masterpiece encircling the giant planet, and the crimson swirls of Jupiter, a tempestuous giant with its own cosmic dance.

Time seemed to lose its grip on the vastness of space. Hours felt like mere moments as we traveled through light-years, witnessing the unimaginable beauty of celestial phenomena. We were reminded of the sheer magnitude of the cosmos, a testament to the wonders that lie beyond our earthly confines.

Eventually, the time came for us to return to our home planet. As we reentered Earth’s atmosphere, the fiery descent illuminated the sky, marking our triumphant return. The journey through space left an everlasting mark on our souls, forever changing our perception of our place in the universe.

Our journey was more than a physical exploration; it was a voyage of wonder and introspection. It taught us the fragility and interconnectedness of all things and ignited an insatiable curiosity to continue unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos. We were forever transformed by the immensity and beauty that awaited us beyond our pale blue dot in the vast expanse of space.

After writing the essay, it’s important to edit and proofread it, which is a not easy. If you find essay editing challenging, you can consider taking the help of an essay editing service .  

Want to keep reading? Here are the newest articles we’ve worked on:

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What Is Descriptive Poetry?

Descriptive poetry is the poetic equivalent of a portrait or a landscape painting. It is realistic and does not delve into emotions and metaphor . Description in most poems is ornamentation, but in descriptive poetry, it becomes the center of attention. This does not mean that such poems are lacking in neither lyrical quality nor that lyrical and narrative poetry lack description.

Poetry developed out of oral traditions in cultures across the world. In time, these poems came to be written down, as did their sometimes complicated rules. Descriptive poetry, and elements of it, has been present as long as poetry has existed, but description-lead poetry grew to prominence between the 16th and 18th centuries. Descriptive English poems were inspired by French versions and early poems include Ben Johnson’s “To Penshurst” in 1616.

Aristotle’s “Poetics” was an important book early on concerning the content of a poem. He believed that poems should represent emotions and histories should represent facts and narrative. Clearly a descriptive poem goes against this notion, indicating that poems veer between description and emotion or try to balance between the two. Christopher Marlowe’s “Hero and Leander” attempted to balance the two by showing intense emotion, but also minute descriptions of things such as Hero’s costume.

One of the first, and most extensive, examples of descriptive poetry in English is “Poly-Olbion” written by Michael Drayton between 1598 and 1612. The poem covers 30 songs and around 15,000 lines of verse and is a thorough description of England and Wales. Each song covers one to three counties and covers topography, folk-culture and history. Each verse is written in Alexandrine meter, each of which has 12 syllables. The original poem was accompanied by illustrated maps by William Hole.

Descriptive poetry covers many common subjects, both natural and human. Human topics include portraits in verse, the description of garments and a person’s actions. The poem does not have to be written in admiration, but for any subjective reason. Any reason behind the descriptive poem will color the impression given in the end product.

Natural topics revolve around landscapes, architecture, objects and elements. An example of the latter is “The Seasons” by John Thomson, which is a long poem describing each of the seasons in great detail. Ben Johnson’s “To Penshurst,” meanwhile, describes landscapes on a journey, much like Drayton’s “Poly-Olbion.”

The main criticism of descriptive poetry is that it lacks intensity. This, according to critics, leaves it emotionless and dead. Such poets believe that description is ornamentation to put meat on the bones of lyrical and narrative poetry and should not dominate either.

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Descriptive Essays

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What is a descriptive essay?

The descriptive essay is a genre of essay that asks the student to describe something—object, person, place, experience, emotion, situation, etc. This genre encourages the student’s ability to create a written account of a particular experience. What is more, this genre allows for a great deal of artistic freedom (the goal of which is to paint an image that is vivid and moving in the mind of the reader).

One might benefit from keeping in mind this simple maxim: If the reader is unable to clearly form an impression of the thing that you are describing, try, try again!

Here are some guidelines for writing a descriptive essay.

• Take time to brainstorm

If your instructor asks you to describe your favorite food, make sure that you jot down some ideas before you begin describing it. For instance, if you choose pizza, you might start by writing down a few words: sauce, cheese, crust, pepperoni, sausage, spices, hot, melted, etc. Once you have written down some words, you can begin by compiling descriptive lists for each one.

• Use clear and concise language.

This means that words are chosen carefully, particularly for their relevancy in relation to that which you are intending to describe.

• Choose vivid language.

Why use horse when you can choose stallion ? Why not use tempestuous instead of violent ? Or why not miserly in place of cheap ? Such choices form a firmer image in the mind of the reader and often times offer nuanced meanings that serve better one’s purpose.

• Use your senses!

Remember, if you are describing something, you need to be appealing to the senses of the reader. Explain how the thing smelled, felt, sounded, tasted, or looked. Embellish the moment with senses.

• What were you thinking?!

If you can describe emotions or feelings related to your topic, you will connect with the reader on a deeper level. Many have felt crushing loss in their lives, or ecstatic joy, or mild complacency. Tap into this emotional reservoir in order to achieve your full descriptive potential.

• Leave the reader with a clear impression.

One of your goals is to evoke a strong sense of familiarity and appreciation in the reader. If your reader can walk away from the essay craving the very pizza you just described, you are on your way to writing effective descriptive essays.

• Be organized!

It is easy to fall into an incoherent rambling of emotions and senses when writing a descriptive essay. However, you must strive to present an organized and logical description if the reader is to come away from the essay with a cogent sense of what it is you are attempting to describe.

Poem Analysis Essay: Guidelines for A+ Paper

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Poems are literary works that shed light on different social and cultural aspects. Therefore, if students want to learn how to write a well-developed poem analysis essay, an essential educational undertaking requires them to familiarize certain technical features. Basically, these features include a refrain, narrators and characters, setting, diction, imagery, figurative language, voice and tone, storyline, rhyme scheme, and structure. In this case, a particular extent to which a student examines these writing elements in poetry determines whether their analysis is shallow or deep. Hence, an in-depth poetic analysis essay goes beyond reviewing prominent features in an observed piece, and it interrogates other “behind the scenes” aspects of writing.

General Aspects

Poems are literary works that help to shed light on particular historical or present social issues. As such, students must critically analyze poetry pieces if they wish to understand key issues that people espouse and what given literature works inform them. Unlike other academic texts, such as essays and reports, poetry does not follow a standard introduction-body-conclusion outline. Instead, such a composition uses stanzas (same as paragraphs in other literary texts), where each espouses specific issues relevant to a poet’s primary mission. Therefore, a poem analysis essay requires an appraisal of different technical features that authors use in their writings.

What Is a Poem Analysis Essay and Its Purpose

According to its definition, a poem analysis essay is a detailed examination of poetry that interprets its unique content, structure, and meaning. The main purpose of writing a poem analysis essay is to analyze various elements that make up a literature piece, including its themes, structure, literary devices, language, and tone (Jackson, 2021). Through this analysis, a person can explore how these elements work together to convey a poet’s message and evoke emotions in a reader. In essay writing, such a composition not only helps readers to appreciate complex layers of a specific poetic work but also hones people’s analytical and interpretative skills. Moreover, by examining various aspects, such as symbolism, imagery, meter, rhyme scheme, and tone, a person can articulate how these components contribute to an overall message and emotional impact of a chosen poetic text (Vendler, 2017). In terms of pages and words, the length of a poem analysis essay depends on academic levels and specific assignment requirements, while general writing guidelines are:

High School

• Length: 1-2 pages
• Word Count: 250-500 words

College (Undergraduate)

• Length: 2-4 pages
• Word Count: 500-1,000 words

University (Bachelor’s Degree)

• Length: 3-6 pages
• Word Count: 750-1,500 words

Master’s Degree

• Length: 5-10 pages
• Word Count: 1,250-2,500 words

Ph.D. Level

• Length: 10-20+ pages
• Word Count: 2,500-5,000+ words

Note: Some sections of a poem analysis essay can be added, deleted, or combined with each other, and it depends on a particular scope of examination and course instructions. For example, the three main components of a poetic analysis essay are an introduction with a well-formulated thesis statement, a body with detailed analysis and evidence, and a conclusion that summarizes critical insights and restates a central claim (Jackson, 2021). Moreover, a good hook of a poem analysis essay is an engaging opening statement or question that captures a reader’s interest and introduces a poetry’s central theme or a compelling aspect of its evaluation. In writing, to start a poem analysis essay, people begin by introducing a specific poetic piece and its author, providing some background context, and presenting a clear thesis statement that outlines their main points of evaluation.

Steps on How to Write a Poem Analysis Essay

To write a poem analysis essay, people thoroughly examine a poetry’s main theme, structure, literary devices, and language, support their evaluations with specific examples and quotes, and present a clear thesis that ties their insights together.

• Read a Poem Multiple Times: Ensure thorough understanding by reading a chosen poetic piece several times to grasp its nuances and meanings.
• Annotate a Chosen Poetry: Make notes on key elements, such as themes, literary devices, and any striking features, for essay writing.
• Research an Author and Context: Investigate a poet’s background and his or her historical, cultural, or personal context in which an assigned poetic work was created.
• Develop a Thesis Statement: Formulate a clear thesis that presents a main argument or interpretation of a given text.
• Outline an Essay: Create a basic outline to organize your thoughts and structure an entire analysis logically.
• Write an Introduction: Introduce a literature piece and author, provide some background, and state a central thesis.
• Analyze Poetic Themes: Examine central themes and discuss how they are conveyed throughout a literary text and its writing.
• Examine Literary Devices: Identify and analyze a particular use of literary devices, like metaphors, similes, imagery, and symbolism.
• Discuss a Poem’s Structure and Form: Analyze a poetic piece’s form, stanza structure, rhyme scheme, and meter to understand its impact.
• Conclude With Personal Reflection: Summarize a provided analysis of essay writing, restate a main thesis, and reflect on a literary piece’s overall significance or impact.

Poetic Examples

A practical poetry analysis essay requires one to break down a whole text into essential elements. Then, students must explain how these technical features work together to reinforce a poem’s real meaning. Basically, the primary purpose of these features is to create an effect on the readers’ minds about a specific topic or a poetry’s meaning (Simecek & Rumbold, 2016). In writing, the most effective approach in a poetry analysis is to have a solid understanding of poetic pieces they intend to analyze. Ultimately, a poetry analysis essay must examine ten technical features: refrain, narrators and characters, setting, diction, imagery, figurative language, voice and tone, storyline, rhyme scheme, and structure. In turn, some examples of sentence starters for beginning a poem analysis essay are:

• In [Poem Title], [Author] explores a unique theme of [Theme] through vivid imagery and intricate language.
• A particular poetic piece [Poetry Title] by [Author] includes various complexities of [Subject], using [Literary Device] to convey its message.
• Introduced in [Year], [Poem Title] reflects [Historical/Cultural Context], highlighting [Specific Aspect] through its [Form/Structure].
• [Author]’s [Poetic Piece Title] is a vivid exploration of [Theme], skillfully crafted with [Literary Device] and [Tone].
• A central theme of [Poetry Title] by [Author] is [Theme], which is effectively portrayed through [Imagery/Metaphor/Symbolism].
• In a well-known poetry [Poem Title], [Author] employs [Rhyme Scheme/Meter/Form] to enhance a reader’s understanding of [Theme/Emotion].
• [Poetic Piece Title] presents a powerful depiction of [Subject], with [Author]’s use of [Literary Device] adding depth to a literature piece’s meaning.
• Through [Poem Title], [Author] addresses a specific issue of [Subject], utilizing [Specific Element] to evoke [Emotion/Response] from readers.
• [Author]’s masterful use of [Literary Device] in [Poetry Title] brings to life a poem’s exploration of [Theme].
• A famous poem [Poetic Piece Title] by [Author] covers a theme of [Theme] with [Imagery/Literary Device], creating a profound impact on its audience.

Every poetic piece has a central message that gives its meaning. Therefore, any poem analysis essay must identify this meaning by interrogating what happens in a literature piece, what authors are trying to communicate, and how powerfully they try to pass along their messages (Parsons & Pinkerton, 2022). In this case, a particular answer to these questions is a refrain – a line or group of lines that people repeat in every stanza. In essay writing, the primary function of a refrain is to emphasize an author’s central message and give poetry meaning.

Narrators and Characters

When analyzing a poem, one must identify a specific narrator – a person voicing the words. In many instances, a particular narrator is different from an author, who is an author of a poetic piece. Then, another factor that one must consider when analyzing poetry for essay writing is a target audience – people to whom a narrator or a poet addresses (Vendler, 2017). In this case, both narrators and authors act as speakers in poetry. Besides, their role is to pass along a central message. Therefore, anyone analyzing a poetic text must determine how these speakers affect a poetry’s main message and why an author chose them as conveyors of a central idea.

To understand how to write a good poem analysis essay, an individual must consider its context from a poet’s perspective. In particular, a setting is a technical feature that gives poetry its boundaries and captures various issues, including an author’s personal history (Vendler, 2017). Then, other elements that define a poetic piece’s context are political, social, cultural, and environmental aspects that prevail during an entire writing of poetry. As such, time is a critical aspect for one to consider when analyzing a literary work for essay writing.

A poem is a short text, meaning every word is significant to a poet’s mission. Therefore, a compelling analysis essay of a poem must consider diction (choice of words) and how an author uses it to create an impression. Here, one must determine why an author uses particular words and whether these words carry any significant meaning (Holbrook, 2021). In writing, essential concepts, such as a line or lines that a particular poet repeats in every stanza, tend to stand out. Thus, a compelling poetic analysis essay should examine whether these important words emphasize or reduce an actual meaning of poetry.

One of the goals of poets is to impress their audiences, and imagery helps a great deal. Basically, imagery is what an author uses to evoke some senses of touch, taste, smell, sight, or sound in a target audience (Vendler, 2017). Imagery, also termed as symbolism, represents a specific object, action, and idea that authors espouse, and it allows them to appeal to deeper senses. In this case, an actual importance of imagery is that it enables readers to empathize with speakers (narrators and characters) by imagining a similar sensory experience.

Figurative Language (Metaphor, Simile, Irony, and Personification)

Another feature that a poem analysis essay must include is how an author utilizes figures of speech, including metaphor, simile, irony, and personification, to create an impression or convey an idea. Ideally, what drives an author to use this language is a particular need to create a powerful emotional and intellectual impact (Jackson, 2021). In turn, this outcome comes by ensuring figures of speech that a poet uses help to enrich poetry to an extent it becomes more memorable to a target audience.

Voice and Tone

Just like any literary text, a poem has a voice and a tone. In this case, a crucial factor determining these two features is a persona that a poet adopts, whether they are only a writer or they are both a writer and a narrator (Vendler, 2017). One of the elements that reflect a particular voice and tone of a poetic text is a poet’s mood. In analyzing a poetic piece for essay writing, one must identify a specific tone that an author uses by determining whether they (poets) are angry, ardent, regretful, or suicidal.

One of the features of a literary text that makes readers interested from a first paragraph to a last one is a storyline, also known as a plot. In this case, there are many issues that a person analyzing a poem should consider to determine a poet’s storyline. For example, these issues include conflicts, tragedies, disappointments, or events (Simecek & Rumbold, 2016). By examining these issues and how an author deals with them for essay writing, a person can understand what direction poetry takes. In essence, a storyline reflects characters that a poet uses and their roles. Besides, suspense is a powerful tool that helps an author to develop a storyline.

Rhyme Scheme

Unlike essays and novels, a poem has a rhyme scheme, which helps to create a rhyme pattern. For example, one of the most notable features that help to create a rhyme in poetry is a refrain, a line or group of lines that come at the end of every stanza (Vendler, 2017). Therefore, examining whether a poetic text has wordings that create a rhyme is crucial in determining a poet’s approach to writing an entire text. Then, poetry pieces that follow a free verse style do not incorporate a rhyme scheme feature. In turn, there are many types of rhymes that authors can use in their works, including internal, slant, and identical rhymes. Finally, the most common strategy that a poet uses in creating a rhyme is to utilize a rhyme scheme composed of shared vowel sounds or consonants.

In many literary works, the most common structure is an introduction-body-conclusion outline. However, this outline cannot be applied to poetry. When analyzing a poetic text, one determines a unique structure that a poet has used by examining how they have written different stanzas (Parsons & Pinkerton, 2022). In this case, an author can either use a regular stanzaic form, which involves the use of two or the same clusters of lines, or an irregular form. Whichever structure poets have used, one must determine why they used them to understand a literary piece’s meaning. In essay writing, an author relates a poem’s structure to a central message or a particular purpose of poetry.

There are different forms of poetry that an author can choose when writing a poetic analysis essay. Two popular examples of poetry are haiku and epic poems. As such, when analyzing poetry, a specific form that an author adopts plays a significant role in determining a particular approach to an entire analysis (Kangasharju et al., 2024). In analyzing a haiku, one must consider its 5-7-5 structure. Basically, this structure means that, in every stanza, a first line has five syllables, a second line – seven syllables, and a third line – five syllables. As such, haiku poetry has three lines and 17 syllables. In analyzing an epic, one must consider its lengthy, narrative structure, where a poet details remarkable feats and adventures of historical characters. In turn, common types of poems include:

Citing Poetry and Using Quotes

As a literary text, a poem can serve as a reference point in an academic paper. In the case of an educational poem analysis essay, a student can identify different elements of poetry to make a point for writing. Basically, these elements include technical features named above. As such, students must cite any poem and a specific place within a poetic piece’s structure to locate an item they are citing (Jackson, 2021). When citing a poetic piece in an MLA format, one must list a last name of a poet followed by a line or lines in a poetic text where the information cited originates. In turn, direct information that a student cites when analyzing a literary text for essay writing must be in quotation marks.

There are many approaches that one can use to analyze a literary text, including a poem. Basically, the five main ways to analyze any poetic piece are to examine its themes, analyze a particular use of literary devices, explore its form and structure, interpret its tone and mood, and consider its historical and cultural context. In essay writing, a shallow analysis is where a person takes the most prominent details of a text and expounds on it (Holbrook, 2021). However, this type of analysis reflects a lack of an in-depth understanding of a text. In a deep analysis, one goes beyond the details that are obvious to consider other factors that might be irrelevant to a shallow analysis. Besides, these factors include an author’s background, a specific time when a poetic piece was written, imagery, and other technical features (Jackson, 2021). When analyzing a literary work, these factors influence not only an actual meaning of poetry but also how someone understands it. Therefore, a casual reader, who ignores these elements, cannot have a full grasp of an author’s meaning when analyzing a literary text.

As indicated, a poem’s outline is different from an introduction-body-conclusion structure of a typical essay. However, when writing a poetic analysis essay, one can choose this outline. In an introduction paragraph, one would mention a poetry title and highlight critical information, such as an author’s background and a specific context within which this poet wrote his or her poetry piece. Basically, this part must be concluded with a thesis statement. In an essay’s body, the goal is to explore an actual meaning of poetry, which must link with a central thesis sentence. Besides, the most critical information in this part should focus on analyzing poetic technical features, wich include imagery, symbolism, figurative language, diction, and others. In turn, a conclusion paragraph should restate a thesis claim and conclude an essay with a thought-provoking remark.

Even though poetry is not a typical literary text, one must approach it as academic essay writing. For example, to do an analysis of a poem, people closely read an assigned text, identify and interpret its themes, literary devices, structure, and language, and explain how these elements contribute to a poetic piece’s meaning and emotional effect (Jackson, 2021). Hence, some of the tips worth noting in an essay on a poetry analysis include:

• Read poetry pieces carefully at least twice.
• Learn about a poem’s context, including an author’s background and a specific time when a person wrote it.
• Identify key statements – those that a poet repeats in every stanza.
• Define a particular subject matter for essay writing by paying attention to a specific theme, tone, mood, and meaning of a poetic text.
• Develop different ideas about what a poet is trying to communicate and pick one.
• Avoid opinions and conjectures by focusing on provable facts.

What to Include

Common Mistakes

• Overlooking a Poem’s Context: Failing to consider a historical, cultural, or personal background of a chosen poetic piece can lead to a vague analysis.
• Ignoring a Thesis Statement: A weak or missing thesis statement can result in writing an unfocused and disorganized essay.
• Paraphrasing a Poetry Instead of Analyzing: Simply restating a poem’s content without interpretation misses an actual essence of analysis.
• Neglecting Literary Devices: Overlooking a particular use of literary devices, such as metaphors, imagery, similes, and others, in essay writing can lead to an incomplete analysis.
• Misinterpreting a Poetic Theme: Misunderstanding a main theme can skew an entire analysis and misrepresent a poet’s intent.
• Forgetting to Support Claims With Evidence: Making assertions without backing them up with quotes or specific examples from an assigned literary work weakens a central argument.
• Ignoring a Poetry’s Structure and Form: Not addressing how a particular poetic piece’s form, rhyme scheme, and meter contribute to its meaning is a common problem in essay writing.
• Failing to Analyze a Tone and Mood: Not discussing how a poet’s tone and a literary text’s mood impact a reader’s perception can result in a biased analysis.
• Overusing Jargon or Complex Language: Excessive use of literary jargon or overly complex language can confuse readers and obscure an entire analysis.
• Lacking a Clear Conclusion: Writing a weak conclusion can make a poetic essay unfinished and fail to reinforce main points of a whole analysis.

Writing a poem analysis essay involves a thorough examination of a poetry’s themes, structure, and literary devices to uncover deeper meanings and insights. A particular writing process begins with a careful reading and annotation, followed by research into a poet’s background and a poetic piece’s context. In essay writing, rafting a clear thesis statement guides an entire analysis, which should explore literature themes, use of literary devices, form, and language. By supporting arguments with specific examples and quotes, a complete essay provides a detailed interpretation, ultimately enhancing a reader’s understanding, knowledge, and appreciation of a literature piece.

Holbrook, S. (2021). How to read (and write about) poetry . Broadview Press.

Jackson, S. (2021). Write about poetry: Getting to the heart of a poem . Routledge.

Kangasharju, Arja. I., Ilomäki, L., & Toom, A. (2024). Online poetry writing at school – Comparing lower secondary students’ experiences between individual and collaborative poetry writing. Frontiers in Education , 9 , 1–13. https://doi.org/10.3389/feduc.2024.1380790

Parsons, L. T., & Pinkerton, L. (2022). Poetry and prose as methodology: A synergy of knowing. Methodological Innovations , 15 (2), 118–126. https://doi.org/10.1177/20597991221087150

Simecek, K., & Rumbold, K. (2016). The uses of poetry. Changing English , 23 (4), 309–313. https://doi.org/10.1080/1358684x.2016.1230300

Vendler, H. (2017). Poems, poets, poetry: An introduction and anthology . Macmillan Learning.

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Essay Papers Writing Online

A comprehensive guide to writing a poem analysis essay.

Delving into the intricate world of poetry analysis can be a rewarding and enlightening experience. A poem analysis essay allows you to explore the nuances of a poem, dissect its themes, and uncover the hidden meanings within its verses. It offers a unique opportunity to delve into the poet’s mind and understand their perspective.

When crafting a poem analysis essay, it is essential to approach the task with a critical eye and an open mind. Careful attention to detail, a keen understanding of poetic devices, and a thoughtful analysis of the poem’s structure are key components of a successful essay. By following a systematic approach and employing effective writing techniques, you can create a compelling and insightful analysis that showcases your literary prowess.

In this article, we will provide you with valuable tips and strategies to help you craft a thought-provoking poem analysis essay. From conducting a thorough analysis of the poem to structuring your essay effectively, we will guide you through the process of analyzing a poem with skill and finesse. By mastering the art of poetry analysis, you can unlock the deeper layers of meaning hidden within the lines of a poem and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of poetry.

Understand the Poem’s Context

When analyzing a poem, it’s essential to understand the context in which it was written. Consider the historical, cultural, and social background that influenced the poet and the poem itself. Research the time period in which the poem was written, the poet’s biography, and any significant events or movements that may have impacted the poet’s work.

Furthermore, pay attention to the poet’s intentions and motivations for writing the poem. Understanding the context can provide valuable insights into the poem’s themes, symbols, and stylistic choices. By delving into the context, you can deepen your interpretation and appreciation of the poem’s meaning.

Analyze the Poem’s Structure

Examining the structure of a poem is crucial in understanding the poet’s intentions and the overall impact of the work. Consider the poem’s form, including the stanza structure, line length, and rhyme scheme. Look for patterns in the organization of the poem, such as repetition, enjambment, or other structural techniques. Pay attention to the rhythm and meter of the poem, as this can contribute to the tone and mood of the piece. By analyzing the structure of the poem, you can uncover deeper meanings and insights that may not be immediately apparent.

Identify Key Themes and Symbols

One important aspect of crafting a poem analysis essay is identifying the key themes and symbols within the poem. Themes are recurring ideas or messages that the poet conveys through the poem, while symbols are objects, characters, or elements that represent deeper meanings.

When analyzing a poem, pay attention to the themes that emerge as you read. Consider what the poet is trying to communicate about topics such as love, nature, life, or death. Look for recurring symbols or images that carry symbolic meaning, such as birds symbolizing freedom or light symbolizing hope.

By identifying the key themes and symbols in a poem, you can gain a deeper understanding of the poet’s message and the significance of the poem as a whole. This analysis can help you craft a thoughtful and insightful essay that explores the poem’s meaning in depth.

Discuss the Poem’s Tone and Mood

One key aspect to consider when analyzing a poem is its tone and mood. The tone of a poem refers to the attitude or feelings that the poet expresses towards the subject matter. It can be playful, serious, sarcastic, melancholic, or any other emotion that the poet conveys through the language and imagery used in the poem. On the other hand, the mood of a poem is the overall feeling or atmosphere that the poem evokes in the reader. The mood can be somber, joyful, contemplative, or any other emotional response that the reader experiences when reading the poem. To analyze the tone and mood of a poem, pay attention to the language, imagery, and metaphors used by the poet, as these elements can reveal the underlying emotions and attitudes that the poet is trying to convey.

Provide Evidence from the Text

When analyzing a poem, it is crucial to support your interpretations with evidence directly from the text. This evidence can include specific lines, phrases, or stanzas that illustrate the themes, imagery, or language used by the poet.

For example: If you are discussing the theme of love in a poem, quote lines where the poet describes emotions, interactions, or relationships to demonstrate how the theme is developed throughout the poem.

Remember: Providing textual evidence not only strengthens your analysis but also shows your deep engagement with the poem and your ability to support your interpretations with concrete examples.

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Descriptive Essay

Definition of descriptive essay, qualities of a descriptive essay, difference between a description and a descriptive essay, examples of descriptive essays in literature, example #1:  the corner store (by eudora welty).

“Our Little Store rose right up from the sidewalk; standing in a street of family houses, it alone hadn’t any yard in front, any tree or flower bed. It was a plain frame building covered over with brick. Above the door, a little railed porch ran across on an upstairs level and four windows with shades were looking out. But I didn’t catch on to those. Running in out of the sun, you met what seemed total obscurity inside. There were almost tangible smells — licorice recently sucked in a child’s cheek, dill pickle brine1 that had leaked through a paper sack in a fresh trail across the wooden floor, ammonia-loaded ice that had been hoisted from wet croker sacks and slammed into the icebox with its sweet butter at the door, and perhaps the smell of still untrapped mice.”

Example #2: And the Orchestra Played On (by Joanne Lipman)

“The hinges creaked when I opened the decrepit case. I was greeted by a cascade of loose horsehair — my bow a victim of mites, the repairman later explained. It was pure agony to twist my fingers into position. But to my astonishment and that of my teenage children — who had never heard me play — I could still manage a sound. “It turned out, a few days later, that there were 100 people just like me. When I showed up at a local school for rehearsal, there they were: five decades worth of former students. There were doctors and accountants, engineers and college professors. There were people who hadn’t played in decades, sitting alongside professionals like Mr. K.’s daughter Melanie, now a violinist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. There were generations of music teachers.”

Example #3: Yarn (by Koyoko Mori)

“The yellow mittens I made in seventh-grade home economics proved that I dreamed in color. For the unit on knitting, we were 1 supposed to turn in a pair of mittens. The two hands had to be precisely the same size so that when we held them together, palm to palm, no extra stitches would stick out from the thumb, the tip of the fingers, or the cuff. Somewhere between making the fourth and the fifth mitten to fulfill this requirement, I dreamed that the ball of yellow yarn in my bag had turned green. Chartreuse, leaf, Granny Smith, lime, neon, acid green. The brightness was electric. I woke up knowing that I was, once again, doomed for a D in home ec.”

Example #4: The Taj Mahal (by Salman Rushdie)

“And this, finally, is why the Taj Mahal must be seen: to remind us that the world is real, that the sound is truer than the echo, the original more forceful than its image in a mirror. The beauty of beautiful things is still able, in these image-saturated times, to transcend imitations. And the Taj Mahal is, beyond the power of words to say it, a lovely thing, perhaps the loveliest of things.”

Function of Descriptive Essay

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