Born 150 Years Ago: Rilke is Trending - Rilke’s restless genius still inspires today’s artists and dreamers
Rainer Maria Rilke, one of the most influential poets of the 20th century, was born prematurely in Prague on December 4, 1875. His life was shaped by contradictions—restlessness and solitude, beauty and brutality—while his work continues to resonate with artists today, from Lady Gaga to BTS.
Born René in Prague, Rilke later dedicated a collection of poems, Larenopfer, to his hometown. Yet his memories of the city darkened after his parents separated. His early success came with the backing of a network of patrons, including publisher Anton Kippenberg and aristocratic families.
Rilke died on December 29, 1926, in Switzerland from a rare form of leukaemia. His influence, however, endures. Contemporary artists still draw inspiration from his words, proving the lasting power of his poetic vision.
