Pablo Neruda was one of the most acclaimed poets of the 20th century, but is comparatively unknown to Americans. This is not for lack of exposure: in the United States as in his native Chile, his translated odes and love poems are widely popular. However, this familiarity masks a great lack of familiarity with Neruda's other works, most especially his political ones.
A broader understanding of Pablo Neruda's poetry, in all its range, variety, and complexity, is therefore important if one wishes to understand his position in the Western literary canon. Given the extent of Neruda's political activity, an acquaintance with these under-explored parts of his œuvre will also be helpful for...
