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Songs Of The Death Of Children (Kindertotenlieder)

Author: Friedrich Rückert

This Page Includes: Full Verses of the Poem in Text. A Free PDF Download for reading purposes. Free Editable Google Doc Download if you wish to make changes or to personalise the poem. The page also includes what the poem is about, structure of poem and explaining the best parts.

Songs Of The Death Of Children (Kindertotenlieder) Poem Verses

You must not shut the night inside you,
But endlessly in light the dark immerse.
A tiny lamp has gone out in my tent –
I bless the flame that warms the universe.

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About the poem

This poem speaks to the idea of embracing both light and darkness in life. The speaker urges the reader to not let the darkness consume them, but instead to immerse themselves in the light. The last two lines of the poem can be interpreted as a metaphor for the loss of a loved one, where the "tiny lamp" represents the life of someone who has passed away. The speaker is grateful for the warmth and light that the person brought to their life and to the world, even if their light has now gone out.

The Structure of Poem

The poem consists of four lines that form a quatrain, with a consistent ABAB rhyme scheme. The poem expresses a sense of acceptance and appreciation for the fleeting nature of life and the world, and suggests finding comfort in the interconnectedness of all things. The imagery of light and darkness is used to symbolize the cycles of life and death. The poem has a contemplative and reflective tone, and uses simple language to convey profound ideas.

Best Quote from Songs Of The Death Of Children (Kindertotenlieder) Poem

This is the poem 'Songs Of The Death Of Children (Kindertotenlieder)' by Friedrich Rückert

"You must not shut the night inside you, But endlessly in light the dark immerse. A tiny lamp has gone out in my tent – I bless the flame that warms the universe."

This quote from the poem "In Memory of My Father" by Marina Tsvetaeva is a beautiful and poignant reminder to embrace both light and dark, and to allow oneself to feel and experience all of life's emotions. It also highlights the interconnectedness of all things, and the importance of recognizing the impact that even the smallest actions or lives can have on the world.