Key learning points

1. You can highlight the key similarities between poems, but also explore their subtle differences (and vice versa).
2. Asking yourself questions about the poems, such as ‘how do the poets feel about X?' is useful when planning comparisons.
3. Comparative connectives are useful for highlighting similarities and/or differences between poems.
4. You should select your evidence carefully, by evaluating which quotations best support your argument.
5. Relevant context must be included in your comparison - think about the reasons for the poets’ different perspectives.

Keywords

• Idealistic - having unrealistic expectations

• Unconventional - not conforming to what is usually or typically done or expected

• Subtle - something so precise that it is difficult to notice

• Mundane - very ordinary and therefore not very exciting

Common misconception