Letters to a Young Poet

Throughout his letters, Rilke argues that works of art are experiences not easily translated to language, and contain something within them that is ultimately inexpressible. In what ways is this true—or not true?

Rilke’s letters often employ figurative language, such as metaphor and simile. How does such figurative language help make Rilke’s points? Does it ever detract from what he is saying?

Why does Rilke believe that love is one of “the most difficult of all our tasks, the ultimate, the last test and proof” (41)? Based on Rilke’s assessment of love, and then based on his assessment of artistry—does creativity involve love? Why or why not?

How do Rilke’s beliefs on poetry, the self, and society connect to the concept of gestation?

Choose a poem by Rilke and consider it in connection with his letters to Kappus. In what ways does the poem evince similar themes to what Rilke discusses in the letters? Does the poem ever contradict what Rilke writes?

The stillness of patience allows for the eventual activity of creation. The pain of solitude allows for the eventual joy of love and communion. These and other paradoxes appear in Rilke’s letters. Is this paradoxical quality related to art itself, as Rilke describes it?

In several instances throughout his letters, such as in letter seven, Rilke discusses gender roles and how society treats men and women. What are Rilke’s views on gender and femininity? Could these views be characterized as feminist? Why or why not?

In his eighth letter, Rilke compares sadness with physical sickness. Explore this metaphor. Looking at the letters’ understanding of sadness, how far can you take the metaphor before it breaks down?