Answer:
C). Paraphrase the poem.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first step to begin analyzing a poem is 'paraphrasing' that implies the restatement or revelation of meaning of the poem in your own words to understand the major ideas reflected with a better clarity. Paraphrasing assists in rewording the central ideas, claims, or meanings presented in the poem to understand more evidently and comprehensively. The further steps follow the recognition of theme and connotative meaning or inter-textual reading or understanding. Thus, option C 'paraphrasing' is the first step to begin analyzing a poem.