Rilke on Formally Disclosing the Meaning of Things

Abstract

Rilke claims that the poet’s task is to reveal the qualitative valences of existence, thus enabling his readers to become emotionally aware of its meaning—in spite of all that might threaten our sense that life is significant and worth living. Insofar as Rilke’s Sonnets to Orpheus enact this mode of vision, they embody an antinihilistic way of seeing. One who does not view the world in this manner must remain unaware of its axiologically rich features, because poetic vision brings tangible value to light for both poet and reader. This chapter discusses how this outlook is articulated in the musical aspects of the Sonnets—which heighten the affective impact of Rilke’s words, and often register powerfully felt shocks of recognition. The formal patterns of Rilke’s sonnets bring intense feeling and insight to voice: furthermore, the poet’s formal techniques contribute to his way of articulating a poetic vision of the world.