Leviathan by Pablo Neruda (1651)
The poem explores the idea of a monstrous, oppressive entity that exercises total control over individuals and society. It critiques the abuse of power and the dehumanizing effects it has on people. The speaker describes the Leviathan as a massive, imposing figure that inspires fear and awe, but also revulsion and resistance.
By Pablo Neruda · First published 1651 · Genre: Poetry, Surrealism, Symbolism · 331 words
First lines
Ark, wrathful peace, slippery bestial night, antarctic alien, you won't pass by me displacing your shadowy floe without my one day entering your walls and raising your armor of submarine winter.
Your black fire of an exiled planet crackled South, the territory of your silence that moved algae shook the age of density.
What this Textopian page supports
Leviathan is listed on Textopian as a poem by Pablo Neruda, dated 1651 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: 1651 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Surrealism, Symbolism, Nature Writing, Existentialism
- Length: 331 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Leviathan by Pablo Neruda
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Genres
- Poetry — The work employs rich imagery, metaphor, and lyrical language characteristic of poetry.
- Surrealism — The text features dream-like sequences and illogical juxtapositions, typical of surrealist literature.
- Symbolism — The use of symbols to convey deeper meanings and emotions is prevalent throughout the text.
- Nature Writing — The vivid descriptions of natural elements and the sea reflect a strong connection to nature.
Tags
Politics · Philosophy · Sociology · History · Critique · Power · State · Government · Authority · Individualism · Collectivism · Social Contract
More by Pablo Neruda
- Body of a Woman (1959)
- The Light Wraps You (1954)
- Ah Vastness of Pines (1975)
- The Morning Is Full (1954)
- So That You Will Hear Me (1976)
- I Remember You As You Were (1952)
- Leaning Into The Afternoons Leaning into the afternoons I cast my sad nets towards your oceanic eyes (1954)
- White Bee (1974)
- All works by Pablo Neruda