Memory by Pablo Neruda (1954)
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and longing for a past love. The speaker recalls memories of a romantic relationship that has been lost, and expresses a deep sense of yearning and melancholy. The poem's language is rich and evocative, with vivid imagery and metaphorical descriptions that convey the intensity of the speaker's emotions.
By Pablo Neruda · First published 1954 · Genre: Poetry, Lyrical, Existentialism · 206 words
First lines
I have to remember everything, keep track of blades of grass, the threads of all untidy happenings, the resting places, inch by inch, the infinite railroad tracks, the surfaces of pain.
If I were to misplace one rosebud and confuse night with a hare, or even if one whole wall of my memory were to disintegrate
I am obliged to make over the air, steam, earth, leaves, hair, even the bricks, the thorns which pierced me, the speed of flight.
Be gentle with the poet.
What this Textopian page supports
Memory is listed on Textopian as a poem by Pablo Neruda, dated 1954 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: 1954 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Lyrical, Existentialism, Romanticism, Surrealism
- Length: 206 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Memory 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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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in a poetic form, utilizing imagery and metaphor to explore themes of memory and existence.
- Lyrical — The text expresses personal emotions and reflections, characteristic of lyrical poetry.
- Existentialism — The themes delve into the nature of memory and existence, questioning reality and perception.
- Romanticism — The focus on personal experience and emotional depth aligns with Romantic literary traditions.
Tags
Poetry · Autobiographical · Chilean Literature · Latin American Literature · Memoir · Nostalgia · Love · Loss · Memory · Identity · Politics · History
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