Unveiling the Inner World of Michelangelo: A Journey through His Complete Poems and Selected Letters

In the annals of art, Michelangelo Buonarroti stands as an unrivaled titan, his artistry transcending the boundaries of sculpture, painting, and architecture. However, what is perhaps less known is Michelangelo's profound literary legacy, a collection of over 300 poems and a selection of poignant letters that illuminate the inner workings of his brilliant mind.

In "Complete Poems and Selected Letters of Michelangelo," readers are invited on an intimate journey into the soul of this artistic genius. This comprehensive volume showcases the full range of Michelangelo's poetic prowess, from love sonnets and madrigals to religious and philosophical reflections.

Complete Poems and Selected Letters of Michelangelo

by Robert Egan

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	936 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	372 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The Passionate Sonnets

Michelangelo's love sonnets are a testament to his fervent emotions and the consuming power of desire. In sonnets to the beautiful Vittoria Colonna, the sculptor-poet pours out his heart, expressing both the ecstasy and agony of unrequited love. His words are imbued with a raw intensity that resonates with readers centuries later:

"Beauty and virtue, the sweet light and true, In an angelic form, my thoughts aspire To find in you, whence chastity draws fire, And the soul's love that wins all sins subdue."

Religious Reflections

Beyond his amorous yearnings, Michelangelo's poetry also explores profound themes of faith and spirituality. In sonnets and madrigals dedicated to God, the Virgin Mary, and the saints, Michelangelo seeks solace and understanding amidst the trials of life. His religious verses are marked by a deep sense of reverence and a longing for divine connection:

"O blessed Saint, to whom the Son of God Gave power to cure the ills of life, And banish pain and misery abroad, Hear now a weary soul in strife."

Philosophical Meditations

In addition to his love and religious poems, Michelangelo penned a series of philosophical sonnets that delve into the complexities of human nature, time, and death. These sonnets are often introspective and melancholy in tone, reflecting the artist's own struggles with the passage of time and the inevitability of loss:

"Time fattens on my loss and grows thereby, And robs my youth and makes my skin grow old, And heeds me not, and doth not care though I Say, 'Spare me, for I suffer grievously.'"

Intimate Letters

While Michelangelo's poems provide a glimpse into his artistic and emotional life, his selected letters offer a more personal and intimate perspective. These letters, written to friends, family, and patrons, reveal Michelangelo's struggles with his art, his financial difficulties, and his relationships with those around him. They also shed light on the fascinating social and cultural landscape of Renaissance Italy.

"I have received your letter, by which I understand that (...) Pope Julius has written to you, and a commission has been given to you, at your request, that two of the figures of the twelve apostles that are to go to San Pietro ad Vincula, should be given to you to work on."

A Treasure Trove for Scholars and Art Enthusiasts

"Complete Poems and Selected Letters of Michelangelo" is an invaluable resource for scholars, art historians, and anyone with a passion for the Italian Renaissance. This comprehensive collection provides a unique opportunity to explore the multifaceted genius of Michelangelo through his words. The poems and letters offer a profound insight into his artistic process, his personal struggles, and the broader intellectual and cultural context of his time.

Whether you are a seasoned admirer of Michelangelo's art or a newcomer to his literary legacy, this volume promises an enriching and unforgettable reading experience. Immerse yourself in the world of Michelangelo and discover the hidden depths of a visionary artist who left an indelible mark on the course of human creativity.

Complete Poems and Selected Letters of Michelangelo

by Robert Egan

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	936 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	372 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE