ST.
ANSELM’S NORTH CITY SCHOOL, JAIPUR
English Core
Project File
On
In silence we unite : Understanding Keeping Quiet”
Submitted by: Submitted To:
Ira Pandey Ms. Rekha Raj
Class: 12 E
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
A project is a golden opportunity for learning and self-development.
I consider myself fortunate and privileged to have such wonderful
mentor guide me through the journey for the completion of the
project. My heartfelt gratitude to my Teacher Guide, Mrs. Rekha Raj
Ma’am, for her patience and belief in me. Her exemplary
investment in the complete process, constant encouragement and
insightful feedback helped us achieve our objective.
Lastly, we would like to thank our family members whose support
help us to complete
the project.
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the Ira Pandey of Class 12 E has
completed the project genuinely under the guidance of
English Teacher Mrs. Rekha Raj Ma’am. She has taken
proper care and shown utmost sincerity in the completion of
this project.I certify that this project is upto my expectations
and guidelines issued by CBSE.
Teacher’s Signature : External’s Signature:
DRIVING QUESTION
How far has humanity pushed the Earth towards
ecological harm, and can quiet reflection inspire a
shift in attitudes toward sustainable living?
OBJECTIVE
Purpose/Objective
• To explore the various causes of environmental degradation linked to
human actions and their consequences on the planet.
• To understand the significance of meditation and introspection as tools for
fostering personal and collective responsibility toward the environment.
• To reflect on the current state of environmental harm and develop a deeper
awareness of how stillness and self-reflection can lead to sustainable
changes.
Introduction
In Pablo Neruda’s poem Keeping Quiet, the poet calls for a moment of
silence, encouraging individuals to pause, reflect, and become aware of
the impact of their actions. He suggests that in this stillness, we can
realize the chaos we create, not just in our personal lives but also in the
world around us. This message holds particular relevance today as we
face the pressing issue of environmental degradation caused by human
activities. Our rapid industrialization, deforestation, pollution, and
overconsumption have wreaked havoc on the planet. Through this project,
inspired by Neruda's words, we will explore how human actions are
harming the Earth and how moments of quiet reflection and introspection
can guide us toward more sustainable, responsible behavior. By
recognizing our role in environmental damage, we can work toward
healing the planet and ensuring a better future for all.
Causes of Environmental Degradation
Causes of Environmental Degradation:
Humans have contributed to environmental degradation in several ways. Below are
some key reasons:
Deforestation: Cutting down forests for agriculture and urban development reduces
biodiversity and contributes to climate change.
Pollution: Factories, cars, and improper waste management have led to air, water, and
land pollution.
Climate Change: The burning of fossil fuels leads to greenhouse gas emissions,
causing global warming and climate change.
Overuse of Resources: Unsustainable consumption of natural resources such as water,
minerals, and fossil fuels is depleting the Earth’s resources at an alarming rate.
Extent of Harm Caused by Humans to the Earth
The consequences of human actions are evident globally:
Rising Sea Levels: Due to global warming, ice caps are melting, which
is causing sea levels to rise, threatening coastal regions.
Loss of Biodiversity: Numerous species are facing extinction because
their habitats are destroyed by human activity.
Polluted Water Bodies: Rivers and oceans are filled with plastic waste
and chemical pollutants, harming marine life.
Extreme Weather Events: Human-caused climate change has led to
more frequent and intense storms, floods, droughts, and wildfires.
Importance of Meditation and Introspection
Pablo Neruda’s poem emphasizes the importance of pausing and
reflecting. Meditation and introspection help individuals to:
Develop Awareness: Reflecting on our actions can lead to a better
understanding of how we are contributing to environmental damage.
Foster Responsibility: Introspection helps us to take responsibility for
our personal habits, such as reducing waste and conserving energy.
Promote Positive Action: Quiet reflection encourages us to take steps
towards sustainable living, such as recycling, reducing plastic use, and
planting trees.
Reflection Based on "Keeping Quiet"
The poem “Keeping Quiet” calls for a moment
of silence and introspection, suggesting that if
we pause and reflect, we might realize the harm
we are causing. The poem is relevant today
because it teaches us the value of stillness and
the potential for change when we take a moment
to consider the impact of our actions on the
environment.
Personal Action Plan for Environmental Sustainability
Based on the insights from "Keeping Quiet" and my research, I have developed the following
action plan to contribute to environmental conservation:
Reduce Plastic Use: I will use reusable bags, bottles, and containers to minimize plastic waste.
Conserve Energy: I will switch off lights and electronics when not in use and opt for energy-
efficient appliances.
Plant Trees: I plan to participate in tree-planting drives to help improve air quality and reduce
carbon footprints.
Promote Awareness: I will encourage my family and friends to adopt sustainable habits such
as recycling and reducing water waste.
Summary of Keeping Quiet
In Keeping Quiet, Pablo Neruda advocates for a moment of silence and stillness, during which
humanity can reflect on its actions and the impact they have on the world. He urges people to
stop their activities—speaking, working, and fighting—to create a space for introspection.
This pause, he suggests, will lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the harm we
inflict on nature and each other.
Neruda emphasizes that this silence is not about inaction but about reconnecting with our
inner selves and recognizing the shared humanity that binds us all. By reflecting in silence,
people may realize the need to stop destructive behaviors, such as violence, exploitation, and
environmental damage. The poem encourages a sense of global unity, where reflection fosters
peace, self-awareness, and a more harmonious relationship with the Earth.
Ultimately, Keeping Quiet calls for personal and collective responsibility to pause, reflect, and
take steps toward a better, more peaceful, and sustainable world.
About the Poet: Pablo Neruda
Pablo Neruda, born Ricardo Eliécer Neftalí Reyes Basoalto in 1904,
was a Chilean poet, diplomat, and politician who became one of the
most celebrated literary figures of the 20th century. He began writing
poetry at a young age and adopted the pen name "Pablo Neruda" to
avoid conflict with his family, who disapproved of his literary pursuits.
Neruda's poetry spans a wide range of themes, including love, nature,
politics, and social justice. He is best known for his passionate love
poems, collected in works such as Twenty Love Poems and a Song of
Despair, as well as his politically charged writings that voiced the
struggles of the working class and oppressed communities.
SURVEY
GLIMPSES
BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. NCERT English class 12th Textbook:
Flamingo
2. Targetjobs.com
3. Wikipedia.org
4.VeryWellmind.com
5.Google.com
