The 9

     Most teachers don't directly ask their students to memorize the nine elements of poetry. They figure us students have enough on our plates as it is, and are trying to do us a solid by letting this slide. WRONG! For most of us, analyzing poetry is a pretty icky-sticky situation that's met with a groan because its not taught very thoroughly. However, knowing "The 9" is almost a foolproof way to ace to poetry sections of an AP English test. Why wouldn't you, if you could easily have these nine elements to help you identify and conquer? So...

The 9

1. Literary Devices
2. Structure
3. Theme
4. Dramatic Situation
5. Tone
6. Grammar
7. Important Images
8. Flow
9. Important Words

      Of course, knowing The 9 implies memorization (which also means a cringe and a sigh.) For those lucky few with amazing photographic memories, just one look at this list is all it takes. The rest of us need tips and tricks for such memorization prowess.