Poetry Analysis: From Language to Meaning

From Setting to Symbolism: A Simple Fiction Analysis Template

  • šŸ  Setting: Where and when does the story take place? (Is it important to the plot?)
  • šŸ‘©ā€šŸ¦° Characters: Who are the main characters? What motivates them?
  • 🧩 Plot: What happens? (Main events, conflict, climax, resolution)
  • šŸŽ­ Theme: What is the big idea or message?
  • šŸ”® Symbolism: Are there any objects, colors, or actions that mean something deeper?
  • āœ… Use this as a checklist every time you read fiction!

Practice: Analyzing a Short Story in Five Quick Steps

  • šŸ“– 1. Read Once for Enjoyment — Don’t overthink, just read!
  • šŸ“ 2. Jot Down First Impressions — What stood out to you?
  • šŸ” 3. Identify Key Elements — Setting, characters, plot, conflict, theme.
  • šŸŽÆ 4. Find Patterns — Repeated ideas, symbols, or feelings.

šŸ—£ļø 5. Write a Mini-Analysis — 5–6 sentences summarizing your thoughts!