Question

What would the fishermen not do?

Answer 1

The poet, Pablo Neruda, imagines a world where everyone pauses their usual activities for a while. In this moment of silence, the fishermen who normally go into the cold sea to catch fish and kill whales would refrain from harming them. Instead of disturbing the natural order and engaging in acts of destruction, they would allow the whales to live peacefully in their natural habitat. By stopping their violent pursuits, they would give nature the much-needed space to heal. This pause would symbolize compassion, respect for life, and harmony between human beings and the environment.

Answer 2

The poet describes the man gathering salt as someone constantly engaged in hard and painful labor. His hands are hurt and wounded due to his daily work, but he hardly gets a chance to reflect on his suffering. According to Neruda, in the moment of silence that he proposes, this man would stop working and look at his injured hands. This act of pausing would allow him to recognize his pain and realize the toll that endless toil has taken on his life. Thus, instead of mindless labor, he would engage in self-reflection and healing. This signifies the need for humans to stop, think, and care for themselves rather than blindly continuing in suffering.

Answer 3

The poet is referring to a unique and extraordinary moment of silence and stillness in the world. He asks all human beings to stop their restless activities, violence, and constant rush for a short while. This moment would be one where everyone reflects upon their own lives, their pain, and their relationship with others and nature. It would create an atmosphere of unity and peace, free from greed, war, and destruction. Such a pause would help people realize the futility of their endless pursuits and instead focus on values of love, brotherhood, and harmony. Neruda believes this collective silence could bring about a transformation in the world.