Ein Abend über den Dichter Rainer Maria Rilke

Rainer Maria Rilke, born on December 4, 1875, is considered one of the most important poets of the 20th century. He himself saw his art as an attempt to deal with fear – a theme that strongly influenced his life and work.

At the centre of the literary evening is the biography "Rilke – Poet of Fear" by Manfred Koch, which combines Rilke's abysmal life with his poetic work. Particular attention is paid to Rilke's time in Switzerland, including in Bern, Soglio, Geneva and Bad Ragaz, as well as to the last phase of his life at Muzot Castle in Valais, where he tended a rose garden.

The reading will be accompanied by Angelika Overath, who will read poems from the anthology "Rilke's Animals" and talk about her animal photographs and still lifes. The evening will be hosted by Alexa Ritter, art and culture officer of the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz.

Manfred Koch was Professor of Modern German Literature at the University of Basel until 2021 and is the author of several volumes of essays and radio features.
Angelika Overath lives as a writer in Sent in the Lower Engadine, runs a school for creative writing with Manfred Koch, has received several awards and her books have been translated into several languages.