And if this 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 its humblest and most indifferent hour, must become a sign and witness to this impulse. This most of all: ask yourself in the most silent hour of your night: must I write? Dig into yourself for a deep answer. 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. and don't expect any understanding but believe in a love that is being stored up for you like an inheritance, and have faith that in this love there is a strength and a blessing so large that you can travel as far as you wish without having to step outside it.”

Seek out some simple and true feeling of what you have in common with them, which doesn't necessarily have to alter when you yourself change again and again when you see them, love life in a form that is not your own and be indulgent toward those who are growing old, who are afraid of the aloneness that you trust. be happy about your growth, in which of course you can't take anyone with you, and be gentle with those who stay behind be confident and calm in front of them and don't torment them with your doubts and don't frighten them with your faith or joy, which they wouldn't be able to comprehend. and this shows that the space around you is beginning to grow vast. “Therefore, dear Sir, love your solitude and try to sing out with the pain it causes you.

Rilke letters to a young poet