You Start Dying Slowly
Pablo Neruda's "You Start Dying Slowly" unfolds a stark reflection on the gradual demise that befalls those who resist the enriching experiences of travel, literature, self-appreciation, and emotional depth, urging readers to break free from stagnant routines and embrace the vibrancy of life.
You Start Dying Slowly
You start dying slowly
if you do not travel,
if you do not read,
If you do not listen to the sounds of life,
If you do not appreciate yourself.
You start dying slowly
When you kill your self-esteem;
When you do not let others help you.
You start dying slowly
If you become a slave of your habits,
Walking everyday on the same paths…
If you do not change your routine,
If you do not wear different colours
Or you do not speak to those you don’t know.
You start dying slowly
If you avoid to feel passion
And their turbulent emotions;
Those which make your eyes glisten
And your heart beat fast.
You start dying slowly
If you do not change your life when you are not satisfied with your job, or with your love,
If you do not risk what is safe for the uncertain,
If you do not go after a dream,
If you do not allow yourself,
At least once in your lifetime,
To run away from sensible advice…
— By Pablo Neruda
Contemplation
Inspired by Neruda's wisdom, ask yourself: In what aspects of life can you introduce change and embrace the uncertainties that come with passion and dreams, safeguarding against the gradual decline in contact with living described in the poem?
