To the Foot from Its Child

Name: To the Foot from Its Child
Author: Pablo Neruda

The poem explores the theme of disconnection and fragmentation between a parent and child. The speaker describes their own foot as if it were a separate entity, addressing its child, emphasizing the physical and emotional distance between them. The tone is melancholic, conveying a sense of longing and loss.

By Pablo Neruda · First published 1952 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Philosophical · 336 words

First lines

The child's foot is not yet aware it's a foot, and would like to be a butterfly or an apple.

But in time, stones and bits of glass, streets, ladders, and the paths in the rough earth go on teaching the foot that it cannot fly, cannot be a fruit bulging on the branch.

What this Textopian page supports

To the Foot from Its Child is listed on Textopian as a poem by Pablo Neruda, dated 1952 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: 1952 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Philosophical, Surrealism, Coming-of-Age
Length: 336 words
Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is written in a poetic style, utilizing imagery and metaphor to explore themes of growth and loss.
Literary Fiction — The narrative delves into existential themes and the human condition, focusing on the journey of a child's foot as a metaphor for life.
Philosophical — The text reflects on the nature of existence, identity, and the passage of time, prompting deeper contemplation.
Surrealism — The imagery and transformation of the foot into various forms evoke a surreal quality, challenging perceptions of reality.