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Do not, do not, do not books for ever hammer at people like perpetual bells? When, between two books, silent sky appears: be glad
Rainer Maria Rilke
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote emphasizes the importance of finding balance between consuming knowledge and enjoying silence.

Rainer Maria Rilke's quote suggests that while the pursuit of knowledge through reading is essential, one should also appreciate the moments of silence and reflection that arise between these moments of learning. It highlights the value of allowing the mind to rest and embrace stillness, rather than only seeking constant stimulation through books and information.

Themes

KnowledgeSilenceBalanceReflectionReading

In practice

Example use cases

During a book club discussion, one might use this quote to encourage members to reflect on what they've read.

More from Rainer Maria Rilke

Spring has again returned. _x000D_ _x000D_ The Earth is like a child that knows many poems._x000D_ _x000D_ Many, O so many. For the hardship_x000D_ _x000D_ of such long learning she receives the prize._x000D_ _x000D_ _x000D_ Strict was her teacher. _x000D_ _x000D_ The white in the old man's beard pleases us._x000D_ _x000D_ Now, what to call green, to call blue,_x000D_ _x000D_ we dare to ask: She knows, She knows!
Rainer Maria RilkeRead
Verses are not, as people think, feelings (those one has early enough) -- they are experiences. For the sake of a verse one must see many cities, men, and things, one must know the animals feel how birds fly, and know the gesture with which the little flowers open in the morning.
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a good marriage is that in which each appoints the other guardian of his solitude
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He reproduced himself with so much humble objectivity, with the unquestioning, matter of fact interest of a dog who sees himself in a mirror and thinks: there's another dog.
Rainer Maria RilkeRead
The only journey is the one within.
Rainer Maria RilkeRead
And now we welcome the new year, full of things that have never been
Rainer Maria RilkeRead

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