Rainer Maria Rilke (1875–1926) was a deeply introspective poet and philosopher of the inner life, whose work explores themes of solitude, transformation, and the slow, unseen process of becoming.
- Born in 1875 in Prague, died in 1926 in Switzerland
- One of the most profound poets of the 20th century
- Famous works include Letters to a Young Poet, The Duino Elegies, and Sonnets to Orpheus
- Believed that creativity comes from deep inner necessity, not external validation
- Emphasized patience, self-reflection, and embracing the unknown as essential to growth
- Encouraged artists to “live the questions” rather than seeking immediate answers
- Saw solitude as essential for personal and creative development
- His writing continues to resonate as a guide for those navigating uncertainty, artistic struggle, and the slow process of becoming