Question

Why do you think Neruda chose to structure the poem the way he did? How does the poem’s structure reflect Neruda’s unique cultural experience? Answer these questions in at least one hundred words.

Answer 1

The poem “The Laughter” by Pablo Neruda reflects the real feelings and situations that Neruda underwent throughout his life. In spite of all the difficulties and hardships, he finds his own native people smiling and laughing at him which gives him the strength to move on. Their ‘laughter’ signifies the happy faces of his people which is a result of his struggle and sacrifices. He uses metaphor throughout the poem which compares the laughter of his beloved to many achievements and happiness of the people. His struggles can only be recognized by the people of Native America who themselves too have witnessed such struggles in their life.