Reality is not simply there, it does not simply exist: it must be sought out and won.

Only truthful hands write true poems. I cannot see any basic difference between a handshake and a poem.

Only one thing remained reachable, close and secure amid all losses: language. Yes, language. In spite of everything, it remained secure against loss.

A nothing we were, are, shall remain, flowering: the nothing--, the no one's rose.

Poetry is a sort of homecoming.

The poem is lonely. It is lonely and en route. Its author stays with it. Does this very fact not place the poem already here, at its inception, in the encounter, in the mystery of encounter?

Don't sign your name between worlds, surmount the manifold of meanings, trust the tearstain, learn to live.

There's nothing in the world for which a poet will give up writing, not even he is a Jew and the language of his poems is German.

We are told that when Hölderlin went 'mad,' he constantly repeated, 'Nothing is happening to me, nothing is happening to me.'

German poetry is going in a very different direction from French poetry.... Its language has become more sober, more factual. It distrusts "beauty." It tries to be truthful.

They've healed me to pieces.

The more passionate and argumentative I get the more followers and friends I make online.

I'd like to jump out of a plane. I have a fear of heights I'd like to face.

There are a number of contemporary playwrights whom I admire enormously, but that's not at all the same thing as being influenced.

On the occasion of every accident that befalls you, remember to turn to yourself and inquire what power you have for turning it to use.

You can do so much in ten minutes' time. Ten minutes, once gone, are gone for good. Divide your life into 10-minute units and sacrifice as few of them as possible in meaningless activity.

During my childhood, I was surrounded by actors and all I remember is they were fun to be around. That kind of sticks.

To go far you must begin near, and the nearest step is the most important one.

If it be sin to love a lovely lad Oh there sin I.

If the facts don't fit your theory, just find some new facts.