Poetry for a Pandemic with Ranier Maria Rilke

The On Being Project has created several poetry films, this one is a visual rendition of the words of Ranier Maria Rilke, “Let This Darkness Be a Bell Tower.” Find a quiet place to watch and listen.

Let This Darkness Be a Bell Tower

Written by Rainer Maria Rilke

Translated and read by Joanna Macy

Quiet friend who has come so far,

feel how your breathing makes more space around you.
Let this darkness be a bell tower
and you the bell. As you ring,

what batters you becomes your strength.
Move back and forth into the change.
What is it like, such intensity of pain?
If the drink is bitter, turn yourself to wine.

In this uncontainable night,
be the mystery at the crossroads of your senses,
the meaning discovered there.

And if the world has ceased to hear you,
say to the silent earth: I flow.
To the rushing water, speak: I am.

Sonnets to Orpheus II, 29

For reflection:

What word, phrase, or image stands out to you?

When has what battered you become your strength?