The Essential Neruda: Selected Poems
Select Format
Select Condition 
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 of an elemental force brings alive a continent's destiny and dreams'. This book presents fifty of his most essential poems in dynamic new translations, the result of an unprecedented collaboration between a team of poets, translators and leading Neruda scholars who came together to revisit or completely retranslate the poems. Also including some previously untranslated works, this bilingual edition sets the standard for a general, high-quality introduction to Neruda's complete oeuvre. The Essential Neruda includes translations by Mark Eisner, John Felstiner, Forrest Gander, Robert Hass, Jack Hirschman, Stephen Kessler, Stephen Mitchell and Alastair Reid, with an introduction by Mark Eisner and a foreword by Lawrence Ferlinghetti.
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
5 ratings
Wonderful tool (and treat!) for those learning Spanish
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 18 years ago
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
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
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
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
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
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
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
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 20 years ago
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.
Copyright © 2025 Thriftbooks.com
Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | Do Not Sell/Share My Personal Information | Cookie Policy | Cookie Preferences | Accessibility Statement
ThriftBooks ® and the ThriftBooks ® logo are registered trademarks of Thrift Books Global, LLC
ThriftBooks ® and the ThriftBooks ® logo are registered trademarks of Thrift Books Global, LLC
