Jennifer Trost
Letters to a Young Poet
Rilke responds to ten letters written by 19-year-old Franz Kappus, who is writing to the master because he is having doubts about whether or not he has the ability to be a poet. Rilke encourages him to believe in himself, to hone his skills, and to persist; he also gives him some sage advice about life. The professional advice Rilke gave Kappus is applicable to all the arts and was a great inspiration to me as I negotiated the uncertain, challenging years necessary before becoming an opera singer. It all came at a time when I needed to hear it in order to continue the arduous journey toward maturity and success as an artist. I hope Rilke’s words will serve as inspiration to our Penn State students, no matter the discipline.