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I am much too alone in this world, yet not alone enough to truly consecrate the hour. I am much too small in this world, yet not small enough to be to you just object and thing, dark and smart. I want my free will and want it accompanying the path which leads to action; and want during times that beg questions, where something is up, to be among those in the know, or else be alone.

Rainer Maria Rilke#5

SpiritualityExistentialPurposeAgencyLonelinessSelf development

About this quote

What does it mean?
The speaker feels both isolated and insufficient, yearning for purpose and agency while desiring connection with the informed.
In plain terms
Feeling alone yet wanting meaningful involvement and purpose.
What can you take from it?
Seek purposeful connections rather than mere existence.

Where it applies

  • creative work
  • spiritual searching

Putting it to work

  • cultivate meaningful relationships
  • embrace personal agency

Questions to consider

  • What gives your life purpose?
  • How can you balance solitude with connection?

Another view

The language is abstract, making practical guidance unclear.

More from Rainer Maria Rilke

  1. Schon ist mein Blick am Hugel, dem besonnten, dem Wege, den ich kaum begann, voran. So fasst uns das, was wir nicht fassen konnten, voller Erscheinung, aus der…

    Permalink to quote #4
  2. The work of the eyes is done. Go now and do the heart-work on the images imprisoned within you.

    Permalink to quote #6
  3. Ach, die Garten bist du, ach, ich sah sie mit solcher Hoffnung. Ein offenes Fenster im Landhaus-, und du tratest beinahe mir nachdenklich heran. Gassen fand ic…

    Permalink to quote #3

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