The Essential Neruda: Selected Poems

by Pablo Neruda

Book Overview

Pablo Neruda (1904-73) was the greatest Latin American poet of the 20th century. A prolific, inspirational poet, he wrote many different kinds of poems covering a wide range of themes, notably love, death, grief and despair. His poetry celebrates the dramatic Chilean landscape and rages against the exploitation of his people, for whom he became a national hero. He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1971 for 'a poetry that with the action...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1852248629
• ISBN13: 9781852248628
• Release Date: January 2010
• Publisher: Bloodaxe Books
• Length: 226 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.4" x 8.4"

Customer Reviews

Wonderful tool (and treat!) for those learning Spanish

My husband is a linguist, and one of the things he suggested I do while learning Spanish is memorize various items -- stories, poems, songs -- that I can say to myself whenever I like. Other than "practice the verbs!" this has been the best language advice I've ever received. It helps me with pronunciation, understanding, fluency -- and, as a major side benefit, I have great pastimes for when I'm waiting in line, or stuck somewhere without a book. "The Essential Neruda" is a goldmine of beautiful pieces, and most anyone will be able to find a poem that appeals to them enough to learn by heart. "Oda al Libro (II)" is one of my favorites, and it has helped me learn and retain the meanings of several great words. Side-by-side bilingual texts like this one also serve as terrific motivators for language learners because as we grow in skill and are able to read in both languages, we can evaluate the translators' work and notice where certain nuances and meanings are lost in the shift from one language to another. Being able to understand a writer like Neruda in his original language is a glorious treat!

it is all in the title

As a former student of Spanish literature, I have always held a deep appreciation for the work of Pablo Neruda. I have often wished to share the beauty of his work with friends and family - yet many of them have found Neruda translations to be inaccessible. I have also found that many of the other translations are stilted or do not properly recreate the rhythm and imagery of the Spanish original. The Essential Neruda combines an excellent overview of Neruda's work with accesible and faithful translation. Whether you are new to the poetry of Pablo Neruda or have already read every one of his works - the Essential Neruda will give you valuable insight into his art and an appreciation of cutting-edge poetry translation. This book also launched a non-profit organization and on-line community dedicated to Neruda and his work. Check out www.redpoppy.net to learn about contemporary Neruda translation and scholarship, Chilean politics and more. It also shows how you can get involved with the legacy of Neruda.

Great Introduction to Neruda

If I were to introduce someone to the greatness of Neruda I would give them this book as it gives an insight into his life's poetry.

Actually Essential! Instructors Should Use This Book

This collection is by far the most thoughtful and persuasive introduction to Neruda available--it really is "essential." The translations are some of the best ever published (to be sure, it's an impressive line-up of contributors), and the editor obviously deeply knows and honors the material. I am a college professor, and I plan to use this work in my classroom. If you are lucky enough to be heading to Chile, this is the one Neruda book to carry you through your travels...to introduce you to that beautiful poetic country.

The Truly Essential Neruda

A careful selection of fifty of Neruda's poems from his lifetime oeuvre, this book is truly essential for new fans of Neruda, offering a wonderful introduction, as well as for long time afficianados, presenting fresh translations by an all star cast of poets, both Chilean and American. This aspect, along with the beautiful layout of Spanish and English side by side on the page, the book has a balanced feel, compelling to readeres interested in decisions in translation, linguistics, or who just love great poetry.