Remembrance by Rainer Maria Rilke
The poem explores themes of memory, loss, and the passage of time. It begins with a contemplative tone, where the speaker reflects on what truly enhances life. The imagery of stones awakening suggests a desire for deeper understanding and connection to existence. The mention of dusk and embossed volumes evokes a sense of nostalgia, as the speaker recalls past experiences and relationships, particularly with women who have left an impact on their life. As the poem progresses, the speaker becomes increasingly aware of the weight of memories, both beautiful and painful. The recollection of a specific year filled with wonder, fear, and prayer indicates a pivotal moment in the speaker's life, highlighting the complexity of human emotions tied to memory. The interplay between past and present creates a sense of longing and introspection, as the speaker grapples with the significance of these memories in shaping their identity. The work ultimately delves into the idea that memories, while often tinged with sorrow, are essential to understanding oneself. The act of remembering becomes a means of reconciling with the past, allowing the speaker to confront their experiences and the people who have influenced them. The poem captures the essence of human experience, where joy and pain coexist, and emphasizes the importance of reflection in the journey of life.
By Rainer Maria Rilke · First published 1901 · Genre: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Existentialism · 137 words
First lines
Expectant and waiting you muse On the great rare thing which alone To enhance your life you would choose: The awakening of the stone, The deeps where yourself you would lose.
In the dusk of the shelves, embossed Shine the volumes in gold and browns, And you think of countries once crossed, Of pictures, of shimmering gowns Of the women that you have lost.
And it comes to you then at last -- And you rise for you are aware Of a year in the far off past With its wonder and fear and prayer.
What this Textopian page supports
Remembrance is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rainer Maria Rilke, dated 1901 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Rainer Maria Rilke
- Date: 1901 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Lyric Poetry, Romanticism, Existentialism, Philosophical Poetry, Modernism
- Length: 137 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Lyric Poetry — The work exhibits strong emotional expression and personal reflection, characteristic of lyric poetry.
- Romanticism — Themes of nostalgia, nature, and deep emotional experiences align with Romantic ideals.
- Existentialism — Explores themes of self-awareness, existence, and the passage of time, common in existential literature.
- Philosophical Poetry — Engages with profound questions about life, memory, and identity, typical of philosophical poetry.
Tags
Poetry · Philosophy · Existentialism · Spirituality · Mortality · Memory · Loss · Grief · Longing · Love · Nature · Solitude