Letters to a Young Poet

Born 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.

Although his poetry was recognized and admired by leading European artists, Austro-German poet Rainer Maria Rilke (1875–1926) was virtually unknown during his lifetime. He achieved international acclaim with his last two works, Duino Elegies and Sonnets to Orpheus, and he has come to be recognized as a master of verse.

Contents
Translator’s Preface xiii
Translator’s Introduction xv
Introduction by the Young Poet 1
The Letters 3
Commentary 35
Rilke in English 55