Rilke: The Last Inward Man

Lesley Chamberlain's book "Rilke: The Last Inward Man" explores the inner world of Rilke's poetry as a response to a world lacking spirituality, encouraging heightened awareness and transcendence within a materialistic world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2022
Publisher: Pushkin Press

When Rilke passed away in 1926, his reputation as a great poet seemed unshakable. However, as the tide of the critical avant-garde shifted, he faced increasing criticism for being perceived as apolitical and too introspective. In his book, "Rilke: The Last Inward Man," acclaimed critic Lesley Chamberlain takes this charge as a launching point to delve into the vastness of the inner world Rilke created in his poetry. Through a combination of insightful observations on Rilke's life, work, and reception, Chamberlain portrays Rilke's inwardness as a profound response to a world that seemed increasingly lacking in spirituality.

In his works of dazzling imagination and rich imagery, Rilke sought to infuse spirit into Western materialism, encouraging a heightened awareness of how to live with the world as it is, rather than retreating into narrow introspection. He sought to retain a sense of transcendence within a world that had experienced a collapse of spiritual certainty.

Chamberlain's book offers a comprehensive exploration of Rilke's life and work, shedding light on the influences and inspirations that shaped his poetic vision. It also examines the critical reception of Rilke's poetry, highlighting both the praise and the criticisms that his work has received over the years. Through his analysis, Chamberlain demonstrates how Rilke's inwardness can be seen as a powerful response to the challenges and uncertainties of his time, offering a path to a deeper understanding of the human condition and the search for meaning.

In conclusion, "Rilke: The Last Inward Man" is a valuable contribution to the study of Rilke's poetry and his place in literary history. Through Chamberlain's insightful analysis, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the expansiveness of Rilke's inner world and the profound response he offered to a world that was in search of spirituality. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Rilke's work and the enduring legacy he has left behind.

Weight: 386g
Dimension: 144 x 222 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781782277248