Why is it important, when first encountering a poem, to consider its title?

The title of a poem is significant because it often serves as an entry point into the poem's meanings and themes. When you first encounter a poem, considering its title helps you to:

1. Set Expectations: The title provides clues about the poem's content, tone, and subject, helping you to set expectations about what you are about to read.

2. Identify Themes: Poets may use the title to highlight central ideas or themes, which can be crucial for understanding the poem's message.

3. Establish Context: The title can give you information about the poem’s setting, time period, or perspective, allowing you to place the poem in a larger context.

4. Engage with the Poem: A title can intrigue you, prompting questions or sparking interest, which guides your reading and engagement with the piece.

5. Provide a Focal Point: During and after reading the poem, the title can serve as a reference point to help you concentrate on the core elements that the poet wants to emphasize.

6. Discover Layers of Meaning: Sometimes, titles have multiple meanings or play on words that become evident after reading the poem, leading to a deeper appreciation and understanding of the work.

Remember that the title is a deliberate choice made by the poet. It is an integral part of the poem and not an afterthought, often being the first piece of the poem a reader interacts with.