Section 1 Summary and Analysis

This book consists of ten letters, written by famed poet Rainer Maria Rilke, to a Young Poet who initially sought him out for writing advice, but ended up learning a great deal about life. The letters encourage the Young Poet to develop an understanding of, and connection, to his inner creative soul. In doing so, Rilke explores themes relating to the necessity of solitude, the relationships between creativity, nature and sexuality, and the importance of living a full life. Over the years the book (originally published by the Young Poet to whom the Letters were originally written) has come to be seen as a kind of guide to life, not just for artists and other creative individuals but for anyone determined to get in touch with her own humanity.

Letter 1 - "Paris, February 17, 1903" This letter, written in response to a letter...