Poetry has been an art form since the beginning of human culture. The tradition started orally, and eventually, as language and writing progressed, started to be recorded. Poetry has been the passion and favorite form of expression for many of history's famous poets, and there is indeed a poem for every occasion, and every mood. Even people who are not literature minded can appreciate a well written poem. This basic guide will give you tips on how to personally gain more from reading poetry.

As poetry has evolved and changed through time, there are many different styles and forms. The more traditional odes are long, and tell stories. Poems were written in a strict style and had a specific form. Modern poetry is often shorter, and doesn't have any set rules behind its writing. It is also more likely to be concise, yet paradoxically ambiguous. Knowing which type of poem you are reading will help you understand it better.

To begin, you should always ensure you are reading in a calm, quiet environment. Try to focus all your attentions on the poem. Read it one time fully, take a minute, then read it again. The second time you read it, take time to reflect on what you just read. Don't try to understand the poem right away, let it sink in.

At this point, take the time to visually overlook the entire poem. Notice it's length, and the shape the words form from line to line. Note if some lines are shorter than others. Also, it helps to reread the poem out loud to listen to the rhythm. Many poems have a beat when read out loud, which is called iambic pentameter. Also, note any words that rhyme or if there are any words that rhyme.

If your poem is in a book you own, highlight or underline words or phrases to stand out to you. Or, on a piece of paper or in a notebook, write down the words or phrases you are attracted to. Maybe you don't understand a word, so look it up in a dictionary. If you particularity affected by a phrase or line, jot down what is striking you as special about them. Once again, you aren't trying to analyze and garner the poet's meaning behind the words, you are trying to find your own personal insight to the poem.

Finally, read the poem again. As you can see, the fully understand and appreciate poetry, it takes a lot of reflection and rereading. This time, on a piece of paper, jot down how the poem makes you feel. Note if you visualize anything from it, or if it brings up any memories of your past. You can also try to understand the poet's intention for the poem. Are they trying to lead you to a conclusion, or are they simply trying to open your own mind?

Poetry can have a profound affect on the read. You can turn to it in rough times and in good times. The words of history's famous poets can comfort and inspire, and hopefully after reading this you will have a good idea on how to begin to love poetry.