How to Quote Poetry in an Essay: A Complete Guide
Quick Guide: How to Quote Poetry
Quick answer
To quote poetry in an essay, use quotation marks for short excerpts of one to three lines and separate the lines using a forward slash ( / ). For quotes longer than three lines, use a block quote format by starting a new line and indenting the entire passage. Always include line numbers in parentheses at the end of the quote for proper MLA documentation.
Quoting Short Passages
When you quote one, two, or three lines of poetry, incorporate them directly into your paragraph. Use quotation marks to enclose the text. To show where one line ends and the next begins, use a forward slash with a space on both sides. For example: 'The woods are lovely, dark and deep, / But I have promises to keep.'
Using Block Quotes for Long Passages
If your quotation exceeds three lines, you must format it as a block quote. Start the quote on a new line and indent the entire section one inch from the left margin. Do not use quotation marks. The punctuation at the end of the poem comes before the parenthetical citation in this specific format.
Handling Line and Stanza Breaks
Maintaining the poet's original structure is essential for accurate analysis. If you are quoting a section that spans a stanza break, use a double forward slash ( / / ) to indicate the gap. For block quotes, simply replicate the spacing and indentation exactly as it appears in the original text.
Citing Your Sources Correctly
Poetry is cited by line numbers rather than page numbers. The first time you cite a poem, include the author's name and the word 'lines' (e.g., Frost lines 1-2). For all following citations in the same essay, you only need to provide the line numbers (e.g., 5-6).
Integrating Quotes Smoothly
Avoid 'dropped' quotes by introducing every excerpt with your own words. Use a signal phrase like 'The speaker observes' or 'The imagery suggests.' This helps the reader understand why the quote is relevant to your argument and keeps your writing flow consistent.