Poetry Toolkit
A structured framework for reading and analysing poems, designed by novelist Matt Wilven.
This toolkit breaks a poem into its essential elements — theme, form, voice, and imagery — using the same lenses I apply in my own writing practice. The modules can be used independently, or supported by AI prompts (such as ChatGPT) to surface patterns and questions.
The goal is clarity and depth: a model you can reuse with any poem, whether you are writing, studying, or teaching.
What you get
- Module 1: Gestalt – identify the poem’s central experience and thematic core.
- Module 2: Formal & Sonic Architecture – examine stanza structure, rhythm, rhyme, and sound.
- Module 3: Voice & World – map persona, tone, and point of view.
- Module 4: Imagery & Figurative Language – analyse image-systems, symbolism, and diction.
Who it’s for
- Writers looking to sharpen their own craft through close reading.
- Students and teachers wanting a repeatable model for analysis.
- Book clubs and workshop groups seeking richer discussion.
Each module is practical and reusable. Apply them to any poem — classic or contemporary — to generate clear, original insights tailored to your needs.
A complete 4-module AI-prompt toolkit for analysing poetry. Step-by-step guidance on form, voice, imagery, and theme. Example reports on major works (Emily Dickinson, Keats, Larkin, Plath, Yeats). Flexible frameworks you can re-use for writing, study, or teaching.