Transcript TPCASTT Poetry Analysis Technique

TPCASTT
Poetry Analysis Technique
Shauna Rynn Waters with changes by Abby Beal
What is
TPCASTT?
• TPCASTT is an acronym of steps used to
analyze poetry. The results of TPCASTT can be
used to write an essay.
• There are seven steps in the TPCASTT process.
T -- Title
• Ponder the title before reading the poem
• Look at the title and attempt to predict what
the poem will be about.
• Using the sample in front of you, let’s do this
step now.
P -Paraphrase
• Translate the poem into your own words
• Make sure you understand the literal plot of
the poem.
• Write notes in the margin beside each major
section of the poem so you can review these
later
C -Connotation
• Contemplate the poem for meaning beyond the literal
level
• Look for any and all poetic devices and try to see
how those devices contribute to the meaning, the
effect or both of the poem
– Metaphor, simile, personification, alliteration,
onomatopoeia, rhythm, rhyme, symbolism, and diction
• Analyze your sample poem now. Circle these devices
and make margin notes about their meanings.
A -- Attitude
• Observe both the speaker’s attitude and the
poet’s attitude (this may or may not be clear)
• This, of course, is TONE.
• Remember that these attitudes will probably
shift or be mixed in the poem. Label all you
see, especially if you see a shift.
S -- Shift
• Note shifts in speakers or attitudes
• See your handout for more information about
indicators of shifts
• Are there any shifts in the poem before you?
T – Title
(again)
• Re-examine the title. Try to see how the title
fits with the work as a whole.
• This time, you are interpreting the title, not just
predicting or looking at it literally.
T -- Theme
• Determine what the poet is saying
• THIS IS NOT THE MORAL OF THE POEM
• Identify the theme by recognizing the human
experience, motivation, or condition of the poem.
• Follow the steps on your handout to help you come to
theme.
• Notice that theme is not a trite parable or axiom
• One work may have several possible themes
Weaving it
together
• Now that you have an understanding of the
basics of the poem, you are ready to TPCASTT
your assigned poem.
• You may not need everything you’ve labeled.