Jan 14 2011
Rainer Maria Rilke – I believe in all that has never yet been spoken
I believe in all that has never yet been spoken
by Rainer Maria Rilke
English version by Anita Barrows and Joanna Macy
I believe in all that has never yet been spoken.
I want to free what waits within me
so that what no one has dared to wish for
may for once spring clear
without my contriving.
If this is arrogant, God, forgive me,
but this is what I need to say.
May what I do flow from me like a river,
no forcing and no holding back,
the way it is with children.
Then in these swelling and ebbing currents,
these deepening tides moving out, returning,
I will sing you as no one ever has,
streaming through widening channels
into the open sea.
— from Rilke’s Book of Hours: Love Poems to God, by Rainer Maria Rilke / Translated by Joanna Macy
/ Photo by Lel4nd /
What can I say to this poem but — Amen!
May we all find the key that unlocks within ourselves creativity, capability, compassion…. that our lives may become a more perfect song to the Eternal.
So what waits within you?
![]() |
Rainer Maria Rilke
Germany (1875 – 1926) Timeline |
More poetry by Rainer Maria Rilke
![]() / Photo by Patrick Hoesly / |
Donations to the Poetry Chaikhana Important Reminder: The Poetry Chaikhana is entirely funded by you — through your donations, monthly subscriptions, and purchases of books and music. If you feel the Poetry Chaikhana is important, please consider making a contribution. New donations: Deep appreciation for everyone’s support! |
A few reasons to consider making a donation of your own…
|
Support the Poetry Chaikhana
Donations to the Poetry Chaikhana in any amount are always welcome. Thank you! | |
A small amount each month makes a big difference. Become a voluntary Subscriber for just $2/mo. | |
Help the Poetry Chaikhana reach more people. Become a Supporter for just $10/mo. |
Collectively your contributions add up. Thank you, all!
(And to those who can’t easily contribute, your word-of-mouth recommendations are also appreciated!)
thanks so much, started reading out loud and had to go back over, ..”so what no one may dare to wish for….my contriving” to really appreciate, understand..the entire poem resinates with me and I will be sharing with friends.. ditto with the Amen……….peace
very much of hope… belief… desire…. to get eternal happiness…
This might be my favorite poem ever.
what contriving
all life just once you can escape it
…the power of innocence.
amen to that!
beautiful
[…] -Rainer Maria Rilke English version by Anita Barrows and Joanna Macy (source) […]