Read more
A fresh perspective on a beloved classic by acclaimed translators Anita Barrows and Joanna Macy.
German poet Rainer Maria Rilke s (1875 1926) Letters to a Young Poet has been treasured by readers for nearly a century. Rilke s personal reflections on the vocation of writing and the experience of living urge an aspiring poet to look inward, while also offering sage wisdom on further issues including gender, solitude, and romantic love. Barrows and Macy s translation extends this compilation of timeless advice and wisdom to a fresh generation of readers. With a new introduction and commentary, this edition places the letters in the context of today s world and the unique challenges we face when seeking authenticity.
About the author
Rainer Maria Rilke; translated by Anita Barrows and Joanna Macy
Summary
An original translation of Rainer Maria Rilke's most famous work by acclaimed translators Anita Barrows and Joanna Macy.
Originally written from 1902-1908, Letters to a Young Poet is a compilation of famous German poet Rainer Maria Rilke's (1875-1926) thoughts and reflections on the vocation of writing. The letters urge his correspondent to look inward and understand his motivations for pursuing a life devoted to the written word, looking beyond those who attempt to criticize and critique his work. His advice can be extended to all young writers.
For the first time in twenty years, Anita Barrows and Joanna Macy offer a new translation of this classic work that speaks to a new generation of artists, poets, and writers. With a new introduction and commentary on each letter, this edition places Rilke's letters in the context of today's world and the unique challenges of modern writers. Barrows and Macy are the first women to translate Letters to a Young Poet and their edition offers a fresh perspective on this work.
