4 Must-Read Austrian Poems

Austria has a rich tradition of poetry, with notable poets such as Rainer Maria Rilke, Franz Kafka, and Ingeborg Bachmann. Austrian poetry often explores themes of love, loss, and existential angst and is known for its deep philosophical and psychological insights.

One important movement in Austrian poetry was the Viennese Modernist movement of the early 20th century, which sought to break free from traditional literary forms and explore new ways of expressing the complexity of modern life. Poets associated with this movement included Georg Trakl, Hugo von Hofmannsthal, and Stefan George.

Another influential movement in Austrian poetry was the post-war generation of the 1950s and 1960s, which was characterized by an emphasis on language and the use of innovative forms and techniques. Poets associated with this movement included Ernst Jandl and Friederike Mayröcker.

Austrian poetry has also been shaped by the country’s turbulent political history, including its experiences with fascism and the Holocaust. Many Austrian poets have used their work to explore these traumatic historical events and to grapple with questions of identity, memory, and responsibility.

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Archaic Torso of Apollo

by Rainer Maria Rilke

‘Archaic Torso of Apollo’ by Rainer Maria Rilke details the remaining beauty and power of a damage sculpture missing its head and legs.

Rilke is also known for his contributions to Austrian poetry. This poem is by far his best-known. It's read around the world and is commonly regarded as one of the best examples of Austrian verse. Rilke wrote in German and was part of the early 20th-century Viennese literary scene, which was characterized by a focus on inner experience and subjectivity.

We cannot know his legendary head

with eyes like ripening fruit. And yet his torso

is still suffused with brilliance from inside,

like a lamp, in which his gaze, now turned to low,

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The Measures Taken

by Erich Fried

‘The Measures Taken’ by Erich Fried is a powerful piece about war and loss. The reader is asked to consider their concepts of good, evil, and who deserves to live throughout the poem.

As an Austrian poet, Fried's work reflects the experiences and concerns of his country and its people. 'The Measures Taken' can be seen as a reflection on Austria's role in World War II and the aftermath of this period of history on the country and its citizens. The poem alludes to events of the period in an incredibly effective way. Fried's personal experiences during the 1900s were incredibly influential.

The lazy are slaughtered

the world grows industrious

The ugly are slaughtered

the world grows beautiful

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Alcohol

by Franz Wright

‘Alcohol’ by Franz Wright is a moving poem that explores the complexities of addiction. It’s told from the perspective of alcohol, addressing someone who is addicted to the substance.

While Wright spent most of his life in the US, he was born in Vienna, Austria. He is often considered part of the tradition of Austrian poetry due to his close association with the country and his exploration of themes related to Austrian history and culture. 'Alcohol' can be seen as an example of this tradition, as it touches on themes of addiction, trauma, and recovery that are common in the work of many Austrian poets.

You do look a little ill.

But we can do something about that, now.

Can’t we.

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I Am Much Too Alone in this World, Yet Not Alone Enough

by Rainer Maria Rilke

‘I Am Much Too Alone in this World, Yet Not Alone Enough’ describes the plight of a man torn between his own desires and those that he has adopted his falling in love.

I am much too alone in this world, yet not alone

enough

to truly consecrate the hour.

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4 Must-Read Austrian Poems

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4 Must-Read Austrian Poems

Archaic Torso of Apollo

by Rainer Maria Rilke

The Measures Taken

by Erich Fried

Alcohol

by Franz Wright

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