Introduction
Citing sources correctly is a crucial part of academic writing. When it comes to citing poems, there are specific guidelines that need to be followed to ensure accuracy. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on how to cite a poem in MLA format. We’ll cover everything from the basic format to in-text citations and common mistakes to avoid.
Step-by-step guide
MLA format is a widely recognized style for formatting academic papers. It entails providing specific details about the sources cited in the text. If you’re citing a poem in MLA format, start with the author’s name, followed by the title of the poem in quotation marks. Add the title of the book or anthology in italics. Additionally, add the name of the editor and publisher details. Finally, add the publication date followed by the page numbers where the poem is located.
For example:
Frost, Robert. “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening.” Collected Poems, Prose, and Plays, edited by Richard Poirier and Mark Richardson, Library of America, 1995, pp. 102-03.
Common mistakes to avoid
It’s common for students to make mistakes when citing poems in MLA format. A common mistake is failing to put the title of the poem in quotation marks. Another mistake is including unnecessary details, such as the URL or web address of an online poem. It’s important to remember that MLA format is designed to be simple and straightforward; avoid overcomplicating your citations.
In-text citations
In-text citations are important because they help your reader locate the original source of the information within your text. When citing a poem in your paper, provide the author’s last name and the line numbers where the poem appears. If you’re citing a longer poem, use ellipses to indicate skipped lines; for instance, (lines 14-18 … 22-26).
For example:
(Frost lines 1-4)
MLA formatting guidelines
MLA formatting guidelines include font size, spacing, and margin size. When citing a poem in MLA format, you must use 12-point font size, double-spaced lines, and 1-inch margins on all sides. Additionally, use italics when citing the title of the book or anthology that contains the poem.
When formatting citations for a poem that has line breaks, use a slash to separate the lines. For example:
(Bradstreet lines 1-2/7-8)
Poem collections
Citing a poem that appears in a collection, such as an anthology or edited volume, can be tricky. You’ll need to provide the necessary information about the collection while still accurately citing the poem itself. Always begin with the poem’s author, followed by the title of the poem in quotation marks. Next, include the title of the collection or anthology in italics, followed by publication details. Finally, add the page numbers of the poem within the collection.
For example:
Whitman, Walt. “Song of Myself.” Leaves of Grass: A Textual Variorum of the Printed Poems, edited by Sculley Bradley et al., Norton, 1980, pp. 12-16.
Best practices for students
When it comes to citing poems in MLA format, it’s essential to keep organized and double-check your work. Use citation software to make sure your citations are accurate. Additionally, make sure to follow the specific guidelines for citing poetry and always proofread your work.
Conclusion
In conclusion, citing a poem in MLA format requires attention to detail, but it shouldn’t be a daunting task for students. By following the guidelines presented in this article and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll be better equipped to cite poems accurately and effectively in your academic writing. Remember, accurate citations are essential in academic writing, so always take the time to ensure your sources are properly cited.
