Rainer Maria Rilke was a Bohemian-Austrian poet and novelist, born on December 4, 1875, in Prague. He is best known for his lyrical poetry and profound exploration of existential themes. Rilke's works often reflect his interest in spirituality, love, and the nature of existence. His most famous collections include the Duino Elegies and Sonnets to Orpheus. Rilke's writing style is characterized by rich imagery and deep emotional resonance. He was influenced by various artistic movements, including Symbolism and Modernism. Throughout his life, Rilke traveled extensively, living in cities like Paris and Berlin, where he interacted with notable artists and thinkers of his time. He passed away on December 29, 1926, in Switzerland.