Cien sonetos de amor
Y esta palabra, este papel escrito
por las mil manos de una sola mano,
no queda en ti, no sirve para sueños,
cae a la tierra: allí se continúa.
No importa que la luz o la alabanza
se derramen y salgan de la copa
si fueron un tenaz temblor del vino,
si se tiñó tu boca de amaranto.
No quiere más la sílaba tardía,
lo que trae y retrae el arrecife
de mis recuerdos, la irritada espuma,
no quiere más sino escribir tu nombre.
Y aunque lo calle mi sombrío amor
más tarde lo dirá la primavera.
Translation to English
One hundred love sonnets
And this word, this written paper
by a thousand hands of a single hand,
does not remain in you, does not serve for dreams,
falls to the ground: there it continues.
No matter if the light or the praise
spills out of the cup
if it was a persistent tremble of wine,
if your mouth was dyed with amaranth.
The late syllable does not want more,
what the reef brings and draws back
of my memories, the irate foam,
does not want more but to write your name.
And even if my gloomy love keeps it silent,
later spring will say it.
Context and Meaning of the Poem
The poem “Cien sonetos de amor” (One hundred love sonnets) is one of the most famous works of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. This poem is part of his collection of 100 sonnets in honor of his beloved wife, Matilde Urrutia. Written in the mid-20th century, Neruda’s love sonnets are considered some of the most passionate and moving love poems ever written in the Spanish language.
Neruda uses beautiful metaphors and vivid imagery to express his deep and intense love for Matilde. In this specific sonnet, titled “Y esta palabra” (And this word), he reflects on the limitations of the spoken word and how written words may also fall short in fully capturing the essence of his love for her.
The first stanza speaks of the futility of the written word as it falls to the ground and is continued on the earthly plane. This can be interpreted as the idea that mere words cannot fully capture the depth and complexity of love and that it is something that must be experienced and felt beyond language.
The second stanza continues this theme, mentioning how even the most eloquent words and praises cannot truly encapsulate the intensity of his feelings. The mention of the cup overflowing with wine is also symbolic of his overwhelming love for Matilde that cannot be contained.
In the third stanza, Neruda reflects on his attempts to capture their memories in writing, but ultimately acknowledges that no words can truly do them justice. It is interesting to note that he mentions an “irate foam”, which could be a metaphor for turbulent and difficult moments in their relationship, but even those do not diminish his love for her.
The final two lines of the poem are perhaps the most powerful, as Neruda proclaims that all he wants is to write Matilde’s name. This simple act becomes a declaration of his love, a reminder of her presence in his life, and a testament to their enduring bond. And even though his love may sometimes remain silent, he knows that spring will always come and bring new life and growth to their love.
“Cien sonetos de amor” is a masterpiece of love poetry that beautifully captures the depths of Neruda’s love for his wife. His words are powerful and emotional, evoking a sense of admiration and inspiration for readers. As we read and interpret his love sonnets, we can also reflect on the magic and power of love and the ways in which it transcends the limitations of language.
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