Quote of the Day – Rainer Maria Rilke

I came across a powerful quote by Rainer Maria Rilke.  You can substitute the word “write” in the quote below for any art form.

“Nobody can counsel and help you, nobody.  There is only one single way.  Go into yourself.  Search the reason that bids you write; find out whether it is spreading out its roots in the deepest places of your heart, acknowledge to yourself whether you would die if it were denied you to write.  This above all — ask yourself in the stillest hour of your night: Must I write?  Delve into yourself for a deep answer.  And if this should be affirmative, if you may meet this earnest question with a strong and simple, ‘I must,’ then build your life according to this necessity; your life even into its most indifferent and slightest hour must be a sign of this urge and a testimony to it.”

-Rainer Maria Rilke