TO me there are two ways available for the analysis of a ballad.
There is a rigid scientific method based on a series of rules anyone can follow. i.e.it is objective.
Then there is a personal analysis that is subjective and may well be accepted or disputed by others. Both can offer something but the latter approach reminds me of a Guardian(newspaper) wine aficionado using a stylised language that borders on being pretentious.
I am happy to be shouted down on that interpretation. It is simply how I see it.