How can I understand poetry?

answers1: Try reading the poem out loud. Poems are made with the music
and rhythm of words in mind. That might help. <br>
<br>
Also, don't over think the poem. Read it carefully to see what it is
saying literally, but don't go looking for a "hidden meaning" in it.
The meaning to you comes through how the poem makes you feel, and what
it reminds you of. It's a personal experience.
answers2: Perhaps you're reading the wrong poetry. Why don't you
start here: <a href="http://www.loc.gov/poetry/180/001.html"
rel="nofollow"class=Clr-b>http://www.loc.gov/poetry/180/001.html</a>
<br>
and see if these poems suit you better.
answers3: Yes, it might be
answers4: Try to relate the words to real life and the problems or
experiences you've had.
answers5: By dissecting each line <br>
By understanding language <br>
By distinguishing gibberish crap from good poetry <br>
By trying to understand a creative original sentence that we have
nether spoken or heard before <br>
<br>
It's not a easy task
answers6: By finding the time period it was written in first. <br>
Then find what part of the world it pertains to. <br>
Finally the same as reading a book or watching a movie. <br>
I know some poems have different meanings for different people.
answers7: There are quite a few good books that can help you with
this: "How Does a Poem Mean?" by John Ciardi, "A Poetry Handbook" by
Mary Oliver, "Making Your Own Days" by Kennneth Koch, and "Nine Gates"
by Jane Hirshfield, for example. You can find these, and others that
you might enjoy, at your library.