The Turtle by Pablo Neruda (1957)

Name: The Turtle
Author: Pablo Neruda

The poem explores the theme of love and its transformative power. It describes a romantic relationship where the speaker's lover is compared to a turtle, emphasizing their slow and deliberate movements. The poem also touches on the idea that love can be a source of strength and inspiration, allowing individuals to overcome challenges and difficulties.

By Pablo Neruda · First published 1957 · Genre: Poetry, Nature Writing, Philosophical Literature · 130 words

First lines

The turtle that has walked so long and seen so much with his ancient eyes, the turtle that fed on olives of the deep sea, the turtle that has swum for seven centuries and known seven thousand springs, the turtle shielded against the heat and cold, against the rays and waves, the turtle of yellow and silver, with stern lunar amber and rapine feet, the turtle remains here asleep, and doesn't know it.

The old man assumed a hardness, abandoned the love of waves and became rigid as an iron plate.

Closing the eyes that have dared so much ocean, sky, time, and earth, and now, he sleeps among the other rocks.

What this Textopian page supports

The Turtle 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, Nature Writing, Philosophical Literature, Symbolism, Meditative Literature
Length: 130 words
Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is written in a poetic style, utilizing imagery and metaphor to convey deep themes.
Nature Writing — The turtle's journey and experiences reflect a strong connection to nature and the passage of time.
Philosophical Literature — The themes of existence, time, and the human condition are explored through the turtle's perspective.
Symbolism — The turtle serves as a symbol of endurance, wisdom, and the passage of time.