Modestly by Pablo Neruda (1956)

Name: Modestly
Author: Pablo Neruda

The poem is a deeply personal and emotional exploration of the speaker's inner world. It delves into themes of love, loss, and longing, with the speaker addressing an absent beloved. The 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 1956 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Contemporary Literature · 215 words

First lines

We are supposed to know certain common virtues, vestments for each day of the week that we see so often they become invisible and do not surrender us to the mysterious, to the fire swallower or the spider woman.

Without doubt I praise the wild excellence, the old-fashioned reverence, the natural see, the economy of sublime truths that cling to rock upon rock in succeeding generations, like certain mollusks who conquered the sea.

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Modestly is listed on Textopian as a poem by Pablo Neruda, dated 1956 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: 1956 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Contemporary Literature, Social Commentary, Autobiographical
Length: 215 words
Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is characterized by its lyrical style, use of metaphor, and exploration of themes common in poetry.
Philosophical — The text delves into existential themes and reflections on human existence and societal norms.
Contemporary Literature — The writing reflects modern sensibilities and addresses contemporary issues of identity and belonging.
Social Commentary — The work critiques societal expectations and norms, highlighting the mundane aspects of life.