The Poet's Obligation

Name: The Poet's Obligation
Author: Pablo Neruda

The poem explores the poet's role in society, emphasizing their obligation to speak truth to power and give voice to the marginalized. It delves into the tension between the poet's desire for beauty and the need to address social injustices. The poem also touches on the theme of identity, exploring how the poet's sense of self is shaped by their cultural heritage and personal experiences.

By Pablo Neruda · First published 1950 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Philosophical Literature · 264 words

First lines

To whoever is not listening to the sea this Friday morning, to whoever is cooped up in house or office, factory or woman or street or mine or dry prison cell, to him I come, and without speaking or looking

I arrive and open the door of his prison, and a vibration starts up, vague and insistent, a long rumble of thunder adds itself to the weight of the planet and the foam, the groaning rivers of the ocean rise, the star vibrates quickly in its corona and the sea beats, dies, and goes on beating.

So, drawn on by my destiny,

I ceaselessly must listen to and keep the sea's lamenting in my consciousness,

What this Textopian page supports

The Poet's Obligation is listed on Textopian as a poem by Pablo Neruda, dated 1950 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: 1950 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Philosophical Literature, Nature Writing, Social Commentary
Length: 264 words
Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is primarily a poetic expression, utilizing imagery and rhythm to convey deep emotions and themes.
Literary Fiction — The text explores profound themes of freedom, nature, and human experience, characteristic of literary fiction.
Philosophical Literature — The work reflects on existential themes and the human condition, prompting philosophical contemplation.
Nature Writing — The vivid descriptions of the sea and natural elements highlight the connection between humanity and nature.