Rampolli

"Rampolli" by George MacDonald is a collection of translations of various poetic works and original poetry, likely written in the late 19th century. The text showcases MacDonald's efforts to capture the essence of poetry from other languages, including notable poets such as Novalis, Schiller, Goethe, and Heine, while presenting his own spiritual reflections throughout. The themes center around the interplay of light and darkness, love and loss, and the pursuit of deeper understanding through poetic expression. At the start of "Rampolli," MacDonald introduces his philosophical approach to translation, emphasizing the importance of retaining the spirit, meaning, and rhythm of the original works. He discusses the challenges of translation and the inevitable loss that occurs in the process. Following this preface, the opening portion features translations of works by Novalis, beginning with "Hymns to the Night." This segment presents contemplative reflections on the beauty of the night and the deeper meanings associated with love, longing, and the transformative power of darkness. MacDonald's own interpretation intertwines personal longing and philosophical musings, establishing a rich emotional landscape that invites readers to explore their own responses to life’s mysteries. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

George MacDonald was a Scottish author, poet and Christian Congregational minister. He became a pioneering figure in the field of modern fantasy literature and the mentor of fellow-writer Lewis Carroll. In addition to his fairy tales, MacDonald wrote several works of Christian theology, including several collections of sermons.