It Means Shadows by Pablo Neruda

Name: It Means Shadows
Author: Pablo Neruda

The poem explores the theme of love and its connection to nature. It describes a romantic relationship where the speaker's lover is compared to natural elements like shadows, wind, and moonlight. The poem also touches on the idea that love can be both beautiful and painful.

By Pablo Neruda · First published 1957 · Genre: Poetry, Existentialism, Romanticism · 216 words

First lines

What hope to consider, what pure presage, what definitive kiss to bury in the heart, to yield in the origins of rejection and intelligence, soft and safe upon the eternally troubled waters?

What vital, rapid wings of a new angel of dreams to install on my sleeping shoulders for perpetual security, in such a way that the road among the stars of death shall be a violent flight begun many days and months and centuries ago?

Perhaps the natural weakness of suspicious and anxious beings suddenly seeks permanence in time and limits on earth, perhaps the tediums and the ages implacably accumulated extend like the lunar wave of an ocean newly created upon shores and lands grievously deserted.

What this Textopian page supports

It Means Shadows is listed on Textopian as a poem by Pablo Neruda, dated 1957 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Pablo Neruda
Date: 1957 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Existentialism, Romanticism, Surrealism, Philosophical Literature
Length: 216 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Difficult (College Level)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is characterized by its lyrical and expressive language, typical of poetry, focusing on themes of existence, hope, and the human condition.
Existentialism — The themes explore the nature of existence, identity, and the struggle between being and non-being, aligning with existentialist philosophy.
Romanticism — The emotional depth and focus on individual experience and nature reflect the ideals of Romanticism.
Surrealism — Imagery and dream-like sequences suggest a surrealist influence, emphasizing the subconscious and abstract concepts.