When in 1903 a young poet considering entering the Germany military, asked well-known German poet Rainer Maria Rilke for his views on his work, the senior poet replied in 10 letters. This correspondence that lasted over five years was later published as Letters to a Young Poet. Rilke says, " No one can advise or help you - no one. There is only one thing you should do. Go into yourself. Find out the reason that commands you to write; see whether it has spread its roots into the very depths of your heart; confess to yourself whether you would have to die if you were forbidden to write. This most of all: Ask yourself in the most silent hour of the night: Must I write? Dig into yourself for a deep answer. And if the answer rings out in assent, if you meet this solemn question with a strong, simple "I must." then build your life in accordance with this necessity; your whole life, even into it's humblest and most indifferent hour, must become a sign and witness to this impulse."
And this holds true not just for writing, but for every passion that you may burn with, every silent yearning that resides within you. If it is the thing your heart beats for, then give it your all by taking control of your life and knocking off all the excess clutter.
Courtesy: Times Life
The Model Student
10 years ago
