Exploring the Feminine Deities of Osha and Insights from Rilke's "Letters to a Young Poet"

Exploring the Feminine Deities of Osha and Insights from Rilke's "Letters to a Young Poet"

In the world of Osha, the Yoruba religion, there are numerous deities that hold significant importance. One of these revered deities is Yemayá, the goddess of the seas. Yemayá is believed to have dominion over the surface of the oceans, and it is said that with her assistance, what is lost can be regained. She guides us to search in the depths of the sea, amidst the crests of waves crashing against the shores and rocks, to find what we seek.

While delving into the realm of literature, we come across a timeless work known as "Letters to a Young Poet." Published for the first time in 1929 in Leipzig, under the title "Briefe an einen jungen Dichter," this collection of ten letters was written by Rainer Maria Rilke to an unknown young poet named Franz Xaver Kappus. Rilke's letters serve as a guide, offering insights into the creative process and the importance of introspection.

Rilke encourages Kappus to find his motivation for writing from within himself, urging him to avoid seeking external validation or relying on criticism to fuel his creativity. He emphasizes the significance of solitude and self-reflection, stating that the life of an artist cannot be measured in conventional terms of time or quantity. According to Rilke, the artistic and the sexual, as well as pain and pleasure, are intertwined sensations of anxiety and adventure. He believes that true artistry lies in exploring the depths of one's emotions and experiences.

In both the teachings of Yemayá and Rilke's letters, there is a recurring theme of looking within oneself to find what is sought. Yemayá guides us to search in the vastness of the sea, while Rilke advises Kappus to delve into his innermost thoughts and emotions. Both emphasize the importance of introspection and self-discovery in the pursuit of fulfillment and creative expression.

Drawing from these teachings, there are three actionable pieces of advice that we can apply to our own lives:

1. Embrace Solitude and Self-Reflection: Take the time to disconnect from the noise and distractions of the outside world. Find solace in solitude and use this time for introspection. Reflect on your thoughts, emotions, and experiences to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your creative potential.

2. Seek Inspiration from Within: Instead of relying solely on external validation or seeking constant feedback, tap into your own inner well of inspiration. Trust your instincts and allow your unique perspective to guide your creative endeavors. True fulfillment comes from creating art that is authentic and true to yourself.

3. Embrace the Journey, Not Just the Destination: Recognize that the creative process is not linear and cannot be measured by external achievements or timelines. Embrace the ups and downs, the pain and pleasure, as part of the adventure of self-expression. Allow yourself to explore uncharted territories and challenge your own boundaries.

In conclusion, the teachings of Yemayá and Rilke's "Letters to a Young Poet" offer profound insights into the importance of introspection, self-discovery, and the pursuit of creative fulfillment. By looking within ourselves, we can uncover what is lost and find the inspiration to create art that is true to our authentic selves. So, let us embrace solitude, seek inspiration from within, and embrace the journey, for it is through these actions that we can unlock the depths of our creative potential.