The process of marking and adding explanatory notes to verse involves close reading and active engagement with the text. This practice aims to enhance understanding and interpretation by identifying key literary devices, themes, and structural elements. For example, underlining instances of alliteration and noting their effect on the poem’s rhythm is a form of annotation.
Engaging with a poem through notation deepens comprehension and fosters critical analysis. By highlighting significant passages, readers uncover layers of meaning and develop a more nuanced appreciation for the poet’s craft. Historically, this method has been crucial for literary scholars and students alike, providing a tangible record of their interpretive process.
