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On this channel, we simplify CBSE English for Class 10 and Class 12 so you can score high marks with clarity and confidence. Today, we bring you a detailed explanation and analysis of Keeping Quiet by Pablo Neruda — a poem that delivers a timeless and universal message about peace, unity, and self-reflection.
About the Poem – Keeping Quiet
Keeping Quiet is one of Pablo Neruda’s most famous poems, included in the CBSE Class 12 Flamingo syllabus. It is not just about being silent for a few seconds — it is a powerful call for human beings across the globe to pause, reflect, and reconsider the path of their actions.
In the poem, the poet asks all of humanity to count up to twelve and keep quiet — not as a sign of laziness, but as a moment of global introspection. Neruda believes that silence can heal our relationships with ourselves, each other, and the planet.
Main Themes
Silence and Reflection – Silence is not emptiness; it is a tool for inner peace.
Global Unity – In silence, people from all nations can feel connected beyond language and politics.
Environmental Awareness – The poet wishes for fishermen to stop harming whales and for laborers to rest and heal.
Anti-War Message – Neruda envisions a world without destructive wars and violence.
Life and Renewal – The poem reminds us that silence is about appreciating life, not death.
Line-by-Line Summary
“Now we will count to twelve…” – The poet begins with a symbolic countdown, inviting everyone to stop and keep still.
“For once on the face of the Earth…” – Silence will transcend languages and bring universal calm.
“It would be an exotic moment…” – A moment without rush, noise, or violence would feel strange yet beautiful.
Fishermen & Salt Gatherers – Neruda highlights examples of professions where rest would mean avoiding harm to nature and caring for the self.
“Those who prepare green wars…” – A reference to environmental destruction, chemical warfare, and conflicts that result in meaningless victories.
“What I want should not be confused with total inactivity…” – Silence is not death; it is an opportunity to live better.
“Perhaps the Earth can teach us…” – Nature shows that apparent death (like winter) can lead to rebirth (like spring).
Poetic Devices Used
Symbolism – “Twelve” symbolizes the hours of the clock or months of the year, representing time as a whole.
Alliteration – “Sudden strangeness,” “keeping quiet.”
Imagery – Visual pictures of fishermen, the cold sea, hurt hands, and people walking together.
Anaphora – Repetition of “Perhaps” to emphasize possibilities.
Personification – Earth is portrayed as a teacher.
Moral and Message
Pablo Neruda urges us to pause from our busy, conflict-filled lives and take a moment to reflect. This pause is not to escape from life, but to understand it better. If humanity could unite in stillness, we could find solutions to problems like war, environmental destruction, and personal unhappiness.
Why This Poem is Important for CBSE Students
Frequently asked in CBSE Board Exams (Class 12 English Flamingo) for short and long answer questions.
Ideal for value-based questions on peace, unity, and sustainable living.
Often included in extract-based questions where students must explain meaning and literary devices.
Exam Tips for Students
Learn the key themes – Silence, unity, peace, environmental care.
Memorize important lines – Especially those explaining the purpose of keeping quiet.
Understand poet’s intent – This is not about inactivity; it’s about meaningful pause.
Practice past year questions – Many questions repeat with slight changes in wording.
About Pablo Neruda
Pablo Neruda (1904–1973) was a Chilean poet, diplomat, and politician who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1971. Known for his passionate and political poetry, he often spoke against war and injustice. Keeping Quiet reflects his lifelong desire for global peace.
This Video Covers
Full text of Keeping Quiet.
Simplified explanation for CBSE students.
Summary and analysis in easy-to-understand language.
Poetic devices and meanings.
Important points for exams.
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