Letters to a Young Poet
(Author) Rainermaria Rilke Rainer Maria RilkeBorn in Prague when it was part of the Austro-Hungarian empire and recognized today as a master of verse, poet Rainer Maria Rilke was considerably less well known in 1902 when he received a heartfelt letter from an aspiring poet. A 19-year-old student sent Rilke some of his verses, seeking an opinion of their worth. Rilke declined to offer a critique, instead encouraging the student to rely upon his own inner judgment: "Nobody can advise and help you, nobody. There is only one single means. Go inside yourself." This seemingly dismissive letter proved to be the first of ten, written during a six-year period that coincided with an important stage in Rilke's artistic development. The poet offered his young correspondent further advice on developing a rich inner life as well as guidance on broader philosophical and existential issues. These letters, which explore many of the themes that later emerged in Rilke's best works, remain a captivating source of insights into the artistic identity and process.
Rainermaria Rilke
Rainer Maria Rilke
Rainer Maria Rilke (1875-1926) was a Bohemian-Austrian poet and novelist known for his lyrical and introspective writing style. His most notable works include "Letters to a Young Poet" and "Duino Elegies." Rilke's poetry often explores themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning in a fragmented world. He is considered a pioneer of modernist poetry and has had a significant influence on the development of 20th-century literature. His most famous work is "The Sonnets to Orpheus." Rilke's unique perspective and profound insights continue to resonate with readers around the world.