Pablo Neruda, born Ricardo Eliecer Neftali Reyes Basoalto, was a Chilean poet who adopted his pen name to avoid his father's disapproval. His early work, 'Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair,' gained notoriety for its eroticism and emotional depth. Neruda's career spanned diplomacy and political activism, leading to exile and a Nobel Prize. His poetry evolved from romanticism to surrealism, touching on love, despair, and politics, leaving a lasting impact on literature.
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Pablo Neruda was born in 1904 in Chile and was raised by his father after his mother's death
Encouragement from Gabriela Mistral
Neruda's poetic talent was recognized and encouraged by Gabriela Mistral at a young age
To avoid his father's disapproval, Neruda chose the pen name Pablo Neruda, inspired by Czech poet Jan Neruda
Neruda's literary career began at the age of thirteen with his first published article, and he later gained recognition with the release of "Crepusculario" and "Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair."
Influence of Diplomatic Postings
Neruda's poetic style evolved during his diplomatic postings, particularly in Spain during the Spanish Civil War
Neruda's political activities and personal experiences greatly influenced his poetry, leading to his exile and eventual return to Chile
Neruda's political stance and support for President Allende's government led to his exile and return to Chile
Neruda's contributions to literature and political influence were recognized with the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1971
Neruda's death, officially attributed to cancer, has been surrounded by allegations and investigations of possible assassination
Neruda's works evolved from romanticism to surrealism, exploring themes of love, despair, and socio-political commentary
Works Celebrated for Vivid Imagery
Neruda's works, such as "The Book of Questions," "100 Love Sonnets," and "Elemental Odes," are renowned for their vivid imagery and lyrical beauty
Neruda's poetry reflects on the human condition and the natural world, exploring the complexities of existence