What is helpful when reading through a poem the first few times?Marking the poem with a pen or pencil, when appropriateMaking a recording of the poem in order to listen to it at a later stage of analysisUsing a historical chronology of poems and poetsHaving several other poems by the same author

When reading through a poem for the first few times, several strategies can be helpful:

1. Marking the poem with a pen or pencil: This can help you to highlight key phrases, words or sections that stand out to you. You can also make notes in the margins about your initial reactions or thoughts.

2. Making a recording of the poem: Listening to a poem can often provide a different perspective than reading it. You might notice different rhythms, rhymes or patterns that you didn't pick up on when reading. You can listen to the recording at a later stage of analysis to help deepen your understanding.

3. Using a historical chronology of poems and poets: This can provide context for the poem you're reading. Understanding the historical and cultural context in which a poem was written can often enhance your understanding and interpretation of the poem.

4. Having several other poems by the same author: Reading multiple poems by the same author can give you a sense of their style, themes and techniques. This can help you to better understand and interpret the specific poem you're focusing on.