2002 Paper 2 - Section 3

'Form' refers to how a poem is written; the techniques, rhyming scheme, structure, word patterns and sounds employed by a poet. It seems to be an unpopular aspect among pupils, and over-emphasis on form can become a very impersonal exercise. However, you must remember that poets invest great thought, time and energy in perfecting their form. You should investigate the rhyming schemes, patterns and sounds in poetry in order to appreciate the part they play in a poem. If you completely ignore form, you are missing out on a vital aspect of poetry. Develop opinions on the poet which you can support/defend, before you go into the exam.