The Total Life: Reflections on the Duino Elegies and Yoruba Oracles

The Total Life: Reflections on the Duino Elegies and Yoruba Oracles

In his collection of poems titled "Duino Elegies," the poet Rainer Maria Rilke delves into the human experience and the search for happiness. He contemplates the difference between humans and animals, recognizing that while animals possess a sense of stillness and consistency, humans are inherently contradictory beings, constantly evolving and changing. Rilke yearns for a solid proof of human substance, acknowledging that humans are not angels, yet they possess intelligence, and they are not animals, although they have physical bodies. This leads him to ponder the earthly destiny of humankind, grounded in its contradictions, conflicts, and agonizing struggles.

One of the themes that Rilke explores in his Elegies is the nature of love. He sees love as both absolute and relative, passionate and intimate, visible and invisible. He acknowledges that love can be temporal and successive, leading him to question the existence of a great unifier of souls. Rilke speculates that love may be an obedience to a divine force within us, a primal urge that flows through our veins, and we accept this dark imperative without protest. Love becomes a link between the beings that came before us and those who will come after, as we carry our past in our present passions and shape the future.

What is striking about Rilke's exploration of the invisible is that he does not place it in a realm beyond our immediate perception. Instead, he believes that the presence of the invisible is intertwined with our everyday lives. It is something we encounter in our daily journeys and experiences, in the mundane and the ordinary.

The Yoruba Oracles, on the other hand, offer a different perspective on life and provide practical advice for navigating its challenges. These ancient divination practices, originating from the Yoruba people of West Africa, offer guidance on various aspects of life, including relationships, health, and personal well-being.

The Yoruba Oracles emphasize the importance of maintaining a harmonious home and ensuring that no one within the household curses or speaks ill of others. They warn against engaging in activities such as abortion and caution against bringing anything negative into one's home. The Oracles also advise against forming partnerships with three individuals, as being the third person in such a relationship may bring misfortune.

Furthermore, these divination practices urge individuals to be mindful of their actions and words. They emphasize the need to take care of one's physical and mental well-being, warning against crossing rivers or having holes or chairs without bottoms in one's home. They advise against allowing others to touch one's head and caution against the dangers of envy and jealousy. The Oracles also stress the importance of seeking guidance from spiritual entities and ancestors, suggesting rituals and prayers to maintain spiritual protection.

While the Duino Elegies and Yoruba Oracles may appear to be unrelated at first glance, there are common points that can be drawn between them. Both explore the complexities of human existence and the search for meaning and fulfillment. They acknowledge the presence of invisible forces in our lives and emphasize the need for introspection and self-care.

Drawing from these reflections, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Embrace Contradictions: Recognize that humans are inherently contradictory beings, capable of both greatness and imperfection. Embrace the complexity of your existence and strive to find harmony within these contradictions.

2. Cultivate Love: Understand that love is multifaceted and ever-changing. Embrace the different forms love takes in your life, from passionate and intimate connections to the love shared with friends and family. Nurture these relationships and allow love to guide your actions.

3. Seek Guidance and Protection: Whether through prayer, rituals, or connecting with spiritual entities and ancestors, seek guidance and protection in your life. Honor your spiritual beliefs and practices, and create a space for introspection and connection with something greater than yourself.

In conclusion, the Duino Elegies and Yoruba Oracles offer unique insights into the human experience and provide guidance on navigating the complexities of life. While Rilke's poetry explores the depths of human existence and the search for meaning, the Yoruba Oracles provide practical advice for maintaining balance and harmony. By incorporating elements from both, we can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and cultivate a more fulfilling life.