Rainer Maria Rilke
Poet known for 'Letters to a Young Poet'

Born
December 4th, 1875
149 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1926
98 years ago — 51 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
Austria
Links & References
Austrian-Swiss poet and author contributed significantly to modernist poetry. Early works included 'The Life of the Virgin Mary', which combined lyrical and religious themes. The 'Duino Elegies' and 'Sonnets to Orpheus' represent major achievements in poetic expression, blending existential themes with deep personal introspection. Rilke's writing often reflected solitude and the search for meaning in life. His correspondence, particularly 'Letters to a Young Poet', remains influential in literary circles, providing guidance and insight into the artistic process and the nature of creativity.
Authored 'The Duino Elegies'
Wrote 'Letters to a Young Poet'
Published 'Sonnets to Orpheus'
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