Understanding the Basics of Quoting Poetry
When it comes to quoting a line of poetry in an essay, understanding the basics is key. Quoting a line of poetry can help bring additional insight into an argument and provide a unique perspective to the topic. Although it is relatively easy to quote a line of poetry, there are several important rules to consider depending on the style guide used.
The American Psychological Association (APA) or Modern Language Association (MLA) are the two most commonly accepted styles in academic writing. When quoting from a poem, ensure the line or lines of the poem are included with quotation marks as well as the page number in parenthesis. Without the page number, the reader will not be able to easily find the exact source that was quoted.
Researching the Line of Poetry
Researching the line of poetry is essential prior to including it in an essay. Most times, the message or meaning of the poem is the most important factor to consider. Select a line of poetry that best supports the point being made in the essay and avoid lines that are too abstract or too literal that could cause the reader to lose focus.
It is also important to look at meter and cadence when selecting a line of poetry. For instance, if citing a line of iambic pentameter, make sure each word adheres to that meter. Additionally, if citing a line of enjambment, the surrounding lines should also be considered as they contribute to a greater understanding of the poem.
Understand the Effect of the Quote
When the selected line of poetry is appropriate to the essay, it can be quite effective. When used correctly, a well-placed quote can add emphasis to a point being made. Be aware, however, that although the quote is from a poem, it should be incorporated in the essay in a way that it is still recognized as being from a poem. This can be difficult to do, but can be done by retaining certain poetic elements.
Things to consider are the imagery and figurative language that is often used in poetry. Maintaining these elements alongside quoted lines of poetry can add depth and additional insight to an argument. Alternatively, omitting the imagery and figurative language when quoting can change the meaning of the poem for the reader and is not recommended.
Following MLA Style Guide
When quoting poetry, consistent formatting is important. Following the MLA Style Guide is especially important to the overall success of the quote. According to the MLA Style Guide, the line of poetry should be included within quotation marks. The line number should be included directly after the quote in parenthesis. This makes it easier for readers to locate the exact source of the quote.
An example of correctly formatting a quote according to the MLA Style Guide can be seen below:
“To be, or not to be, that is the question” (3.1.55).
In this example, “To be, or not to be, that is the question” is the quote and (3.1.55) is indicating the line and act number in the play that it came from.
APA Style Guide on Quoting Poetry
The APA Style Guide, like MLA, also handles quoting from a poem with the same basic principle. The line of poetry should be included in quotation marks and with parenthesis indicating the line number of the source. For books, the page number should be included as well.
An example of correctly formatting a quote according to the APA Style Guide can be seen below:
“To be, or not to be, that is the question” (3.1.55, p. 100).
In this example, “To be, or not to be, that is the question” is the quote, (3.1.55) is indicating the line and act number in the play that it came from, and (p.100) is the page number in the book the play was found.
Quoting Lines of Poetry in Context
Quoting lines of poetry in an essay is not as difficult as it may sound. Once the basics have been understood thoroughly, it is possible to accurately reference a line of poetry. When quoting a line of poetry, ensuring it is well researched and properly attributed depends largely on the style guide used. Following the MLA and APA Style Guides is integral for accurately quoting a line of poetry.
Considering Other Factors
In addition to researching and citing lines of poetry correctly, it is important to consider the effect the quote has on the essay. Selecting a line that is too abstract can cause the reader to lose focus. Alternatively, selecting a line that is too literal can cause the reader to become bored.
Getting the appropriate meter and cadence for the line of poetry is also important. If not adhered to, the quote can be distorted and its intended meaning lost. Being mindful of the context of poetry when quoting is an essential step in writing an engaging essay.
Selecting the Right Line of Poetry
Selecting the right line of poetry to quote can be difficult. To ensure the most appropriate line of poetry is used,consider the main message of the poem and the effect the quote may have on the essay. Additionally, if not correctly formatted, the quote may be completely unrecognizable.
Make sure the correct style guide is used and research the line of poetry before citing it. Consider the context of the poem, pay attention to meter and cadence, and maintain the figurative language in the quote. These steps, combined with understanding the basics, help lead to an effective line of poetry.
Proofreading for Accuracy
Proofreading for accuracy is an important step when quoting lines of poetry in an essay. It is best to read the essay aloud and with a trusted mentor or classmate when possible. This can help identify any errors made related to quoting the line of poetry, or if it is a suitable selection for the essay. Inappropriate meter and cadence, incorrect formatting or mistakes made in the research can all be identified this way.
Considering Multiple Perspectives
When quoting lines of poetry in an essay, taking into account multiple opinions is important. Reading critiques and understanding the implications of each quote can provide a deeper understanding to the poem, the essay, and the argument being made. Taking the time to hear out the perspectives of others can be key when trying to decide which quote will be most effective.
Adding Emotional Triggers
When quoting lines of poetry, it can be useful to include emotional triggers. Triggers can include allusions, metaphors, and imagery. Appropriately adding these triggers can evoke emotion in the reader that helps bring the argument of the essay to life. Additionally, when referencing the poem, contextual information can be included to help guide the reader.
