The Angels
The Angels - context Summary
From Das Stunden-buch (1899)
Written in 1899 and published in Das Stunden-Buch, "The Angels" belongs to Rilke's early mystical phase. It reflects his intensified spiritual and artistic search, shaped by travels to Russia and deep engagement with religious themes and the idea of God. The poem presents angels as both weary and transcendent figures whose quiet presence and sudden stirring evoke a cosmic music and the sense of a divine beginning.
Read Complete AnalysesThey all have tired mouths And luminous, illimitable souls; And a longing (as if for sin) Trembles at times through their dreams. They all resemble one another, In God's garden they are silent Like many, many intervals In His mighty melody. But when they spread their wings They awaken the winds That stir as though God With His far-reaching master hands Turned the pages of the dark book of Beginning.
Translated by Jessie Lamont
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