Tpcastt: Poem Analysis For Deep Understanding

TPCASTT is an acronym, it represents a structured approach; it supports the analysis and interpretation of poetry through title examination, paraphrasing, connotation exploration, attitude identification, shift recognition, theme determination, and title re-examination. The initial title of the poem often provides a crucial lens, it shapes readers’ expectations and focuses their interpretation. The paraphrasing process involves translating the poem’s language into prose, it clarifying the literal meaning before exploring deeper layers. Attitude is the speaker’s or poet’s perspective, it influences the emotional tone and thematic elements of the poem.

Ever felt like you’re standing outside a poetry party, unsure how to get in and groove with the rhythm and rhyme? 😩 Fear not, my friend, because I’m about to let you in on a little secret weapon called TPCASTT!

Think of TPCASTT as your trusty decoder ring for poetry. It’s not some boring academic mumbo jumbo, but a super effective method to dive deep into any poem and come out the other side with a genuine understanding—and maybe even a newfound love for verse. ❤️

Whether you’re a student staring down a poetry assignment or just someone who wants to appreciate poetry on a deeper level, TPCASTT is your ticket. It helps you break down the poem systematically, so no sneaky metaphor or subtle shift gets past you.

With TPCASTT, you’ll not only understand what the poem is saying, but you’ll also appreciate how the poet says it. You’ll uncover layers of meaning you never knew existed, and your interpretations will be richer, more insightful, and—dare I say—totally mind-blowing. 🤯 So, buckle up, poetry lovers! We’re about to unlock some serious secrets.

What IS TPCASTT Anyway? Let’s Decode This Crazy Acronym!

Okay, so you’ve heard about this TPCASTT thing, right? It sounds like some kind of futuristic robot name, doesn’t it? But trust me, it’s way cooler (and less likely to take over the world). TPCASTT is actually a super-handy tool for digging deep into poetry and uncovering all those hidden meanings poets love to sprinkle in. Think of it as your secret decoder ring for unlocking poetic secrets!

But what does TPCASTT stand for? Well, buckle up, because here it comes:

• Title: (Before Reading!)
• Paraphrase: (What’s actually happening?)
• Connotation: (What’s lurking beneath the surface?)
• Attitude: (What’s the poem’s vibe?)
• Shift: (Did things just get weird?)
• Title: (Again! Now with insight!)
• Theme: (The big idea!)

See? It’s not so scary when you break it down. Each letter represents a crucial step in understanding a poem.

The beauty of TPCASTT is that it gives you a structured way to approach poetry. No more staring blankly at the page wondering what the heck the poet was trying to say! It’s like having a checklist for literary analysis – a roadmap that makes sure you don’t miss anything important. It ensures that no crucial aspect of the poem is overlooked! With TPCASTT, you’ll be spotting symbolism, dissecting diction, and unraveling rhyme schemes like a pro in no time!

Step 1: Title – Your First Clue in the Poetry Puzzle

Ever feel like you’re about to dive into a mystery novel? Well, think of a poem’s title as the intriguing cover that hints at all the secrets inside. Before you even peek at the first line, the title is sitting there, just waiting to be deciphered. So, why is it so important to give it a good look before anything else? Simple! It’s your sneak peek into the poet’s mind.

Think of it as trying to guess what’s in a gift-wrapped box. You haven’t opened it yet, but you can shake it, weigh it, and check out the wrapping paper for clues, right? The title is like that wrapping paper – it gives you something to start with before you’re swimming in verses.

Title Detective: Making Educated Guesses

Okay, so you’ve got the title in front of you. Now what? It’s time to put on your detective hat and make some informed guesses. What do you think the poem is going to be about? What kind of mood do you expect? Is it going to be happy, sad, or something else entirely?

Let’s say the title is “Sunrise on Maple Street.” What comes to mind? Maybe a peaceful morning scene, the warmth of the sun, a sense of calm and new beginnings? Jot those ideas down! You’re building your initial framework of what the poem might hold. The goal here isn’t to be right, it’s to start thinking critically.

Beware! Titles Can Be Tricksters

Now, here’s where it gets fun. Sometimes, titles are straightforward and tell you exactly what you’re getting. Other times, they’re sneaky little tricksters! They might mislead you, throw you off the scent, or even reveal a crucial piece of information that you won’t fully understand until you’ve read the whole poem.

For instance, a poem titled “The Cage” might sound like it’s about captivity or confinement. But what if, after reading, you realize “The Cage” actually refers to the speaker’s own mind or a restrictive societal norm? That initial expectation gets flipped, doesn’t it? Or, imagine a poem called “Eulogy for a Lemon.” Sounds absurd, right? But it might be a clever way to explore themes of loss and decay in an unexpected way. The point is: be ready to have your assumptions challenged! A title might seem obvious at first, but poems love to play with expectations. Keep an open mind!

Step 2: Paraphrase – Okay, Let’s Talk Translation!

Alright, so you’ve stared down the title, made some wild guesses (we’ve all been there!), and now it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty. We’re talking about paraphrasing, which, in layman’s terms, means translating that fancy, sometimes totally confusing poem into your own, everyday language. Think of it as turning Shakespeare into text speak – okay, maybe not that extreme, but you get the idea!

Why Bother Paraphrasing?

Why go to all this trouble? Well, think of it this way: if you don’t understand what the poem is actually saying on a basic level, you’re going to have a tough time digging out the deeper meanings. Paraphrasing is like building a solid foundation before you start constructing your poetic skyscraper. It ensures that you aren’t missing the forest for the trees.

Paraphrasing Techniques: Busting Through the Barriers

So, how do we tackle this translation task? Here are a few tips and tricks to get you started:

• Line-by-Line Breakdown: Don’t try to paraphrase the whole poem at once. Take it one line at a time. This makes the task much less daunting.
• Simple Language is Your Friend: Forget flowery prose. Aim for clarity. Replace archaic words with their modern equivalents. Untangle those complex sentences and break them down into shorter, easier-to-digest chunks.
• Don’t Overthink It (at First): The initial paraphrase is about understanding the literal meaning. Don’t worry too much about figurative language or hidden symbolism just yet. We’ll get to that in the next step (connotation!).
• Think of it as Explaining to a Friend: Pretend you’re explaining the poem to a friend who has no clue about poetry. How would you put it in words they’d easily understand?

The Literal Foundation: Understanding the Core Message

The ultimate goal of paraphrasing is to ensure you’ve grasped the basic, literal meaning of the poem. Once you have that solid understanding, you can start exploring the deeper layers of meaning with confidence. So, grab your pen, notepad, and dictionary (or your laptop, if you’re a digital native) and get ready to translate! You’ll be surprised at how much easier the rest of the TPCASTT process becomes once you’ve conquered the paraphrase!

Diving Deep: Unleashing the Power of Connotation

Okay, so you’ve wrestled the title into submission, and you’ve managed to paraphrase the poem without completely losing your mind in a sea of archaic words. Congrats! Now, buckle up, because things are about to get interesting. We’re diving headfirst into the world of connotation – where the real magic of poetry actually happens.

Think of it this way: a poem isn’t just a bunch of words strung together; it’s a treasure chest overflowing with hidden meanings and secret messages. And connotation is the key that unlocks it all. It’s about looking beyond the literal and uncovering the emotional weight, the symbolic significance, and the underlying implications of the poet’s word choices. Ready to become a literary detective? Let’s get started.

Spotting Figurative Language: It’s More Than Just Metaphors

So, what exactly are we looking for? First up: figurative language. That’s basically any language that isn’t meant to be taken literally. It’s the poet’s way of jazzing things up and adding layers of meaning. We’re talking about metaphors (comparing two unlike things without using “like” or “as”), similes (doing the same thing, but with “like” or “as”), personification (giving human qualities to inanimate objects), and a whole host of other sneaky devices.

Why bother with all this figurative jazz? Because it’s how poets create vivid images, evoke powerful emotions, and make us see the world in a whole new light. When a poet says “the moon was a ghostly galleon,” they’re not just talking about the moon. They’re suggesting a sense of mystery, adventure, and maybe even a hint of danger. It is up to you to discover deeper meaning of why the poet wrote that.

Painting Pictures with Words: The Power of Imagery

Next on our list: Imagery. This is where the poet tries to awaken your senses. It’s about creating mental pictures, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures in your mind. Great poets are like word-wielding artists, using language to paint vivid scenes that leap off the page.

For example, think of Edgar Allan Poe’s imagery which is filled with macabre and depressing vibes.

How do you spot imagery? Look for words that appeal to your senses. Is the poet describing the color of something? The sound it makes? The way it feels? The more sensory details the poet provides, the stronger the imagery will be. And the stronger the imagery, the more deeply you’ll connect with the poem.

Decoding the Symbols: Symbolism Isn’t Just for English Class

Last but definitely not least: Symbolism. This is where things get really interesting. Symbols are objects, people, or ideas that represent something else. A rose, for example, might symbolize love or beauty. A dove might symbolize peace. A dark forest might symbolize the unknown or the subconscious.

Here’s the kicker: symbols aren’t always obvious. Sometimes, they’re subtle and require a bit of digging to uncover. How do you crack the code? Pay attention to recurring images or ideas in the poem. Ask yourself what those images or ideas might represent on a deeper level. And don’t be afraid to do a little research! Sometimes, knowing the historical or cultural context of a poem can shed light on its symbolism.

Step 4: Attitude – Cracking the Code of the Speaker’s Feelings

Alright, poetry detectives, let’s put on our emotional radar and dive into attitude, also known as tone! Think of “tone” as the speaker’s vibe, their emotional state of mind, or the feeling they’re trying to hit you with through the poem. It’s like, are they elated, bummed out, or maybe even being a bit of a smart aleck?

Now, how do we figure this out? It’s like trying to understand someone’s mood without them actually telling you. The secret? Pay attention! Look closely at the words they use (diction), the images they paint (imagery), and basically, everything else they’re throwing into the mix.

How to spot the mood:

• Diction is Key: Is the speaker using flowery, romantic words or harsh, angry ones? Words are like little clues, guiding us to the speaker’s heart.
• Imagery Paints the Picture: A poem filled with sunshine and roses probably isn’t all doom and gloom. Pay attention to the visuals and sensations the poem creates.
• Literary Devices as Tone Boosters: Similes, metaphors, and even the sound of the words can amp up the tone. A sad poem might use alliteration with a lot of “s” sounds to create a somber, hissing effect.

Tone Cheat Sheet: Some Common Vibes

To help you get started, here are a few common tones you might encounter:

• Joyful: Happy, excited, optimistic.
• Melancholic: Sad, pensive, reflective.
• Ironic: Sarcastic, mocking, playfully contradictory.
• Sarcastic: Wry, scornful, bitterly amusing.
• Angry: Furious, resentful, indignant.
• Loving: Affectionate, tender, passionate.
• Fearful: Anxious, apprehensive, terrified.

This is just the tip of the iceberg. There are tons of tones out there! As you read more poetry, you’ll start to get a feel for the subtle nuances and unique emotional landscapes each poem creates. Good luck, you can do it.

Step 5: Shift – Spotting the Plot Twists in Poetry!

Okay, picture this: you’re watching a movie, everything’s going smoothly, maybe a little too smoothly, and then BAM! The music changes, the lighting shifts, and suddenly the hero is the villain, or the world as you knew it is turned upside down. Poems can do that too! That’s where “Shift” comes in. It’s all about those moments when the poem takes a turn, like a rollercoaster suddenly climbing a huge hill.

So, what kind of turns are we talking about? Well, a shift in tone is a big one. Maybe the poem starts out all sunshine and rainbows, then out of nowhere becomes dark and gloomy. Or, perhaps the setting changes dramatically – one minute you’re in a bustling city, the next you’re lost in a silent forest. Even the speaker’s perspective can do a 180, giving you a whole new way of looking at things. And sometimes, it’s simply the subject matter that shifts; the poem might start by describing a flower, then launch into a deep discussion about mortality. It’s like the poem is saying, “Hold on tight, we’re going somewhere different now!”

Finding the Clues: Your Shift-Spotting Toolkit

But how do you actually find these shifts? Think of yourself as a literary detective, and shifts are the clues! Luckily, poets often leave behind little breadcrumbs to guide you. Keep an eye out for shift indicators. These are words or phrases that scream, “Pay attention, something’s changing!” Some common culprits include:

• But: This is the big one! “But” often signals a direct contrast or contradiction.
• Yet: Similar to “but,” “yet” introduces a change in direction.
• However: Another way of saying “things are about to get different.”
• Then: This word can mark a change in time or sequence, leading to a shift in focus.
• Although: Acknowledge one thing, then introduce something contrasting.

But it’s not just about the words. Pay attention to changes in stanza length or rhyme scheme. A sudden break in the rhythm can be a sign that the poem is shifting gears. Maybe the poem has been following a neat AABB rhyme scheme, and then suddenly throws in a line that doesn’t rhyme at all – that’s a red flag!

Why Does It Matter? The Shift’s Secret Message

Finding the shift isn’t just about ticking a box on your TPCASTT checklist. It’s about unlocking a whole new level of understanding. The shift often reveals the poem’s central argument or emotional turning point. It shows you where the poet wants you to rethink your initial impressions and consider a deeper meaning.

So, next time you’re analyzing a poem, don’t just skim over it. Be on the lookout for those sneaky shifts! They’re the secret passages that lead to the heart of the poem. The more you practice spotting them, the better you’ll get at decoding the poem’s true message. Happy hunting!

Step 6: Title (Revisited) – Aha! Moments and Title Transformations

Okay, sleuths, you’ve done the hard yards! You’ve wrestled with words, decoded hidden meanings, and navigated the emotional landscape of the poem. Now it’s time for a rewarding revisit – the title. Remember that little phrase that started it all? It’s calling you back for a second date.

Think of it this way: when you first met the title, it was a quick hello, a first impression based on limited information. Now, you’ve practically lived with the poem! You know its secrets, its fears, its hopes. So, naturally, your understanding of the title will have likely morphed.

Consider these questions: Does the title now make more sense? Does it hint at something you completely missed before? Has your initial interpretation been turned on its head? Maybe the poet was being sneaky and ironic all along!

Don’t be surprised if you experience an “Aha!” moment. Perhaps the title, which seemed straightforward at first, is actually a clever metaphor or a subtle clue to the poem’s central theme. Sometimes, the title acts as a final piece of the puzzle, clicking into place and completing the picture.

Here’s what to do: Really interrogate the title again, armed with your newfound knowledge. Ask yourself: how does the title resonate with the themes you’ve identified? Does it underscore the speaker’s attitude, or perhaps foreshadow a crucial shift? The title might even serve as a mini-summary, encapsulating the poem’s essence in just a few carefully chosen words.

Step 7: Theme – Unearthing the Heart of the Poem

Okay, detectives, we’ve reached the final boss level of TPCASTT: Theme. Think of theme as the poem’s big secret, the underlying message or idea that the poet is desperately trying to whisper (or sometimes shout!) in your ear. It’s not just what the poem is about, but what it’s really about. What universal truth is peeking out from behind the carefully crafted words?

Finding the Gems: Identifying Main Themes

So, how do we find these elusive themes? Well, there’s no treasure map, unfortunately, but here are a few pointers:

• Look for recurring ideas: Does the poem keep circling back to a certain concept, like love, loss, or the fleeting nature of time? These repetitions are breadcrumbs leading you to the main idea.

• Consider the characters (if any) and their journeys: What do they learn? How do they change? Their experiences often reflect the poem’s central message.

• Analyze the conflicts: What are the characters struggling with? What are the internal battles being waged? The answers to these questions often point to the theme.

• Think big: Themes are usually universal and applicable to more than just the poem itself. A poem about a broken vase isn’t really about a broken vase; it might be about the fragility of beauty, the pain of loss, or the inevitability of change.

Show Me the Money: Supporting Themes with Textual Evidence

Identifying a theme is one thing, but backing it up is another. You can’t just say, “This poem is about love!” You need to prove it! This is where textual evidence comes in. Think of it as presenting your evidence in court. You need quotes from the poem that support your theme identification.

• Find lines that directly relate to the theme: If you think the theme is about perseverance, look for lines that show the speaker or characters overcoming challenges.

• Analyze the language used in those lines: Do the words create a sense of hope, determination, or resilience?

• Explain how the quotes support your interpretation: Don’t just drop a quote and expect it to speak for itself. Connect it to your theme and explain why it’s relevant.

Think of it like this: you’re not just saying, “This poem is about hope.” You’re saying, “This poem is about hope, and here’s why: in line 5, the speaker says, ‘Even in the darkest night, a star will shine.’ This quote shows that even in the face of adversity, there is always a glimmer of hope, which supports the theme of perseverance and optimism.”

By providing textual evidence, you’re not just stating your opinion, you’re demonstrating that your interpretation is grounded in the poem itself. You’re showing that you’ve done your homework and you’re ready to defend your conclusion. It’s like a mic-drop moment in poetry analysis!

Enhancing Interpretation: The Role of Poetic Devices

Ever heard a poem and felt something… different? Like a little shiver down your spine or a sudden aha! moment? Chances are, poetic devices were working their magic behind the scenes! These aren’t just fancy words poets throw around to sound smart (although, let’s be honest, they do sound pretty smart). They’re the secret ingredients that add flavor, texture, and depth to a poem, turning it from a simple string of words into a powerful work of art. Let’s dive into a few of these essential tools in a poet’s toolbox.

Alliteration: A Tongue-Twisting Treat

Ever tried saying “Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers” five times fast? That’s alliteration in action! It’s the repetition of the same consonant sound at the beginning of nearby words. Think of it as the poet’s way of creating a catchy, memorable phrase.

• Example: “Sally sells seashells by the seashore.” (The repeated “s” sound creates a playful, almost sing-song effect)
  • Effect: Alliteration doesn’t just sound good; it emphasizes certain words or phrases, drawing the reader’s attention and making the poem more engaging. It can also create a sense of rhythm and flow.

Assonance: The Vowel Voyage

While alliteration focuses on consonant sounds, assonance is all about the vowels. It’s the repetition of similar vowel sounds within words that are close together.

• Example: “The cat sat back and laughed.” (The repeated “a” sound creates a sense of internal rhyme and connection.)
  • Effect: Assonance adds a musical quality to the poem, creating a sense of harmony and unity. It can also evoke a particular mood or emotion, depending on the vowel sounds used.

Consonance: A Close Consonant Cousin

Consonance is similar to assonance, but instead of vowels, it’s the repetition of consonant sounds anywhere within the words (not just at the beginning).

• Example: “He struck a streak of bad luck.” (The repeated “k” sound creates a harsh, jarring effect.)
  • Effect: Consonance can create a sense of harmony or discord, depending on the sounds used. It can also emphasize certain words or ideas, adding depth and texture to the poem.

Onomatopoeia: Words That Imitate Sounds

Ever read a word that sounds exactly like what it describes? That’s onomatopoeia! It’s when words mimic the sounds they represent.

• Examples: “Buzz,” “hiss,” “boom,” “splash.”
  • Effect: Onomatopoeia brings the poem to life, engaging the reader’s senses and creating a more immersive experience. It allows the reader to hear the poem in their mind, making it more vivid and memorable.

These poetic devices are powerful tools that poets use to enhance their work. By recognizing and analyzing these devices, we can unlock a deeper understanding and appreciation for the poem’s meaning, rhythm, and overall effect. So next time you’re reading a poem, listen closely – you might just hear the magic happening!

The Power of Structure: Stanza, Rhyme, and Rhythm

Ever notice how some songs just feel a certain way? A lullaby soothes, a march invigorates, and a love song… well, hopefully it makes you swoon! A lot of that feeling comes from the music, right? But did you know that poems work in a similar way? It’s not just the words themselves, but how those words are arranged that gives a poem its power. Let’s look into the hidden architecture of poetry and see how things like stanza, rhyme, and rhythm all play a part.

Decoding the Blueprint: How Form Affects Feeling

Just like a building needs a blueprint, a poem often has a structure that guides its creation and influences its impact. Think about it: a sprawling mansion feels different than a cozy cottage, right? Same with poems! Whether it’s a tightly controlled sonnet, a storytelling ballad, or the wild freedom of free verse, the poem’s shape affects how we interpret it.

• Sonnets, with their 14 lines and specific rhyme schemes, often tackle themes of love, beauty, or mortality with a sense of formality and precision. They’re like a perfectly crafted clock – every piece has its place and purpose.
• Ballads, on the other hand, are like folk songs – they often tell a story with a simple rhyme scheme and a catchy rhythm. Think epic tales of heroes, heartbreak, and adventure!
• And then there’s free verse, the rebel of the poetry world! It throws out the rulebook, allowing the poet to experiment with line breaks, rhythm, and sound to create a unique and personal experience. It’s all about capturing the natural flow of thought and emotion.

The Music of Words: Rhyme and Rhythm’s Impact

Now, let’s turn up the volume and talk about the music of poetry. Rhyme and rhythm are like the bass and drums of a poem, providing a beat and a melody that resonate with the reader.

Rhyme scheme is the pattern of rhymes at the end of each line, creating a sense of connection and expectation. For example, an AABB rhyme scheme (where the first and second lines rhyme, and the third and fourth lines rhyme) feels simple and straightforward, while an ABAB rhyme scheme can create a more complex and interwoven effect.

Rhythm, or meter, is the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of poetry. It’s the heartbeat of the poem, creating a sense of flow and momentum. Iambic pentameter (five pairs of unstressed and stressed syllables per line) is a common rhythm in English poetry, giving it a formal and elegant feel, like Shakespeare. But poets can also play with rhythm to create a sense of urgency, chaos, or calm.

Putting it All Together: Structure in Action

How does all this actually work in a poem? Let’s say you’re reading a sonnet about the fleeting nature of beauty. The strict structure of the sonnet, with its limited space and specific rhyme scheme, can reinforce the idea that beauty is precious and must be captured before it fades. Or imagine a free verse poem about the chaos of city life. The lack of structure can mirror the unpredictability and energy of the urban environment.

Think about Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Raven”. The consistent rhyme scheme and rhythm create a hypnotic effect, drawing the reader into the speaker’s growing madness. The structure reinforces the poem’s theme of grief, loss, and the unraveling of the human mind.

So, the next time you read a poem, don’t just focus on the words themselves. Pay attention to the shape, sound, and rhythm of the poem. You might be surprised at how much these structural elements contribute to the poem’s overall meaning and effect!

Putting It All Together: A TPCASTT Example

• Selecting Our Poetry Guinea Pig: Let’s take a classic, something most folks have probably stumbled upon at some point. How about Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken”? It’s short, sweet, and ripe for analysis. Think of it as our TPCASTT training wheels poem.

• TPCASTT in Action – “The Road Not Taken” Unveiled:

  • T – Title: “The Road Not Taken” – Before even diving in, we might guess this poem is about choices, paths, or decisions. Maybe even a little regret? We shall see!

  • P – Paraphrase: Okay, so essentially, the speaker is standing at a fork in the road (literally!). He’s bummed he can’t take both, observes them for a bit, then chooses one that seems less traveled. He figures he’ll come back and take the other someday but doubts he will. Later in life, he’ll be telling this story with a sigh, saying he took the road less traveled, and that made all the difference. Simple, right?

  • C – Connotation: Ah, here’s where it gets juicy! Frost uses a fork in the road as a metaphor for life choices. The “road less traveled” isn’t literally a less-worn path; it symbolizes an unconventional or unique decision. The sigh is interesting, is it one of relief, regret, or something else? Frost’s word choice helps create the connotation.

  • A – Attitude: The speaker seems reflective, maybe a tad wistful. There’s a sense of contemplation and even a hint of justification in his choice. Is he trying to convince himself (and us) that he made the right decision?

  • S – Shift: The poem doesn’t have huge shifts, but there’s a subtle one at the end. The tone becomes more definitive as the speaker predicts how he’ll recount this story in the future. The word “sigh” could also be a shift.

  • T – Title (Revisited): Now that we’ve dissected the poem, the title “The Road Not Taken” is loaded with meaning. It’s not just about a physical road; it’s about all the opportunities and possibilities we leave behind when we make a choice.

  • Theme: The big one! The poem explores the themes of choice, individuality, and the impact of decisions on one’s life. It suggests that even seemingly small choices can shape our destiny and that the road we don’t take can be just as significant as the one we do.

• TPCASTT Powers, Activate! See how each step builds upon the previous one? The Title gives us a starting point, the Paraphrase grounds us in the literal, the Connotation digs deeper, the Attitude reveals the speaker’s feelings, the Shift highlights changes, and the revisited Title and Theme bring it all home. TPCASTT isn’t just a method; it’s a journey into the heart of the poem!

So, there you have it! Hopefully, this example gave you a clearer picture of how to dissect a poem using TPCASTT. Now go forth and unlock the hidden meanings in your favorite verses! Happy analyzing!