The aphorisms of Phia Rilke (1851-1931). mother of Rainer Maria Rilke, reflect in many ways the mores and social concerns of the turn of the century, treating such intriguing subjects as sin and redemption, aristocratic (mis)behavior, pain and suffering, love and marriage, women, emancipation, communication, experience, and life's wisdom. While few in number, her aphorisms compare favorably with those of such prominent writers as Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach, Franz Grillparzer, Isolde Kurz, Arthur Schnitzler, Karl Kraus and others.
