When you go to bed, don't leave bread or milk on the table: it attracts the dead

When you go to bed, don't leave bread or milk on the table: it attracts the dead

Rainer Maria Rilke, a renowned poet and writer, is known for his deep and introspective works that often explore themes of love, loss, and the human experience. His poetry is filled with rich imagery and profound insights that have captivated readers for generations. One of Rilke's most famous quotes is, "When you go to bed, don't leave bread or milk on the table: it attracts the dead."

This enigmatic statement has been interpreted in various ways by scholars and readers alike. Some believe that Rilke was referring to the superstition that leaving food out overnight can attract spirits or ghosts. In many cultures, it is believed that the dead are drawn to offerings of food and drink, and leaving such items out can invite unwanted supernatural visitors into one's home.

Others interpret Rilke's words more metaphorically, suggesting that the act of leaving bread or milk on the table symbolizes a lack of mindfulness or carelessness. In this interpretation, Rilke may be cautioning against neglecting the small details of daily life, as even seemingly insignificant actions can have profound consequences.

Regardless of the interpretation, Rilke's words carry a sense of foreboding and mystery that is characteristic of his writing. The idea of attracting the dead with food left out on the table conjures up images of the supernatural and the unknown, tapping into primal fears and anxieties that have long haunted the human psyche.