HOW TO READ A POEM
There's really only one reason why poetry has gotten a reputation for being so "difficult": It demands your full attention.
Follow Your Ears.
It's okay to ask "What does it mean？" when you are reading a poem. But it's even better to ask "How does it sound？" Even if you can't understand a single thing about a poem's "subject" or "theme", you can always say something—anything—about the sound of the words.
OK, we're not saying you have to shout it from the rooftops. If you're embarrassed and want to lock yourself in the attic (阁楼) and read the poem in the quietest whisper, go ahead. But reading aloud is really an effective way to understand a poem, because reading even part of it aloud can totally change your perspective on how it works.
Read In Different Places.
Just like music, the experience of poetry changes depending on your mood and the environment. Read in as many different places as possible: at the beach, on a mountain, in the subway.
Think Like A Poet.
Here's a fun exercise. Go through the poem one line at a time, covering up the next line with your hand so you can't see it. Put yourself in the poet's shoes: If you start to think like this, you'll be able to appreciate all the different choices that go into making a poem.
A. Be Patient.
B. Read It Aloud.
C. If all else fails, treat it like a song.
D. If I had to write a line to come after this line, what would I put?
E. So if you don't get it, set the poem aside and come back to it later.
F. Here is a short list of tips that will make poems reading more enjoyable.
G. Sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery for a poem to really come alive.
