Friedrich Nietzsche, the philosopher known for his profound and often unsettling insights, once remarked that the poet Friedrich Holderlin had raised consciousness with his poetry to the “most sublime ideality.”
This highlights Nietzsche’s admiration for Holderlin, whole poetry transcended the ordinary and sought to capture the essence of human experience and divine inspiration.
The Sublime Ideality in Holderlin’s Work
When Nietzsche spoke of Holderlin’s “most sublime ideality,” he was likely referring to the poet’s ability to elevate the human spirit through his poetic verses.
Holderlin’s poetry is deeply philosophical, exploring themes of nature, divinity, and the tension between the mortal and the eternal.
One poem that embodies this sublime ideality is “Hyperion’s Song of Fate.” In this poem, Holderlin contrasts the peaceful existence of the gods with the turbulent, often tragic lives of humans:
(Excerpt Quote translated by ChatGPT)
“You walk above in the light, On soft ground, blessed spirits! Radiant gods’ breezes Touch you lightly, As the fingers of the artist Touch sacred strings.”
This poem reflects Holderlin’s yearning for a higher state of being, where the human soul can aspire to touch the divine, even if only fleetingly. It’s this pursuit of the sublime that Nietzsche found so powerful.
Compelling Quotes from Holderlin
I’ve not read Holderlin. I’m waiting until I can read fluently in German, so it may be a bit. But I asked ChatGPT to give me some of his quotes and here they are to ponder.
“But where there is danger, the rescuing force grows as well.” –From “Patmos.” This line reflects Holderlin’s belief in the duality of existence, where crisis and salvation are intertwined.
“Fatherland, where is that?!”–From “Hyperion.” This quote underscores Holderlin’s existential questioning of belonging and identity.
“The sun sets, but only then do the stars rise.”–From “Der Wanderer.” Here Holderlin expresses the idea that true beauty and truth often emerge in moments of darkness and uncertainty.
A Student of Nietzsche; A Student of Holderlin
Nietzsche’s praise for Holderlin’s ability to elevate consciousness to a “most sublime ideality” speaks to the profound impact that the poet’s work had on him. Holderlin’s verses, with their philosophical musings and lyrical beauty, continue to resonate, offering readers a glimpse into a higher realm of thought and existence.
In recognizing this other Friedrich, Nietzsche acknowledged the timeless power of poetry to inspire and uplift the human spirit.