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Summary of Keeping Quiet - Pablo Neruda

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KEEPING QUIET
                              – Pablo Neruda

This poem advocates the importance of silence and self-analysis and that of universal peace and harmony.
The poet asks the people to keep still to the count of twelve. He urges the people throughout the world to stop speaking and keep still during this time. The moment will be extraordinarily tranquil with no hustle bustle of the frenzy world.  Although it may seem a little strange in the beginning, it will eventually bring us all together. This silence will be free from the disturbing sounds of engines and people rushing to get their work done for some time. He feels contended imagining the change that will be brought about in those moments. The whales in the sea will get a little more time to live with the fishermen’s activity put on hold. The men who hurt their hands while collecting salt will get a little rest. Even the people who seek fresh wars, using fatal gas and weapons, will put on clean clothes (without the blood stains of other humans) and will get a chance to walk among their brothers. They will lead a hatred-free and calm life, giving a halt to their destructive activities.
The poet clarifies that his wish should not be considered as a case for “total inactivity”. He only wants to interrupt the sad, cruel and baleful activities of the world for a few moments and to make the people introspect their actions. The poet uses the image of the earth to show how life exists in seemingly dormant things. The poet says that the self-examination in silence will initiate logical thinking and will help us come back with fresh spirit and new perspectives.
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