Der Einzige

poem by Hölderlin

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June 26, 2026

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"Der Einzige," meaning "The Only One," is a significant poem by the German poet Friedrich Hölderlin. Written around 1802-1806, it is considered one of his major works, created during a period of intense creativity and mental strain.1

The poem is characterized by its apocalyptic visions and a sense of unique grandeur, reflecting Hölderlin's complex inner world as his mental health declined. "Der Einzige" explores themes of divinity and uniqueness, with "the Only One" often interpreted as a divine figure or a representation of a singular, ultimate truth. Hölderlin's work sought to reconcile classical and Christian themes, and this poem exemplifies his profound, often mystical, exploration of spiritual concepts. Despite its brilliance, Hölderlin received little recognition during his lifetime, with his work being rediscovered and celebrated much later.12

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Friedrich Hölderlin
…“Friedensfeier” (“Celebration of Peace”), “Der Einzige” (“The Only One”), and “Patmos,” products of a mind on the verge of madness, are apocalyptic visions of unique grandeur. He also completed verse translations of Sophocles’ Antigone and Oedipus Tyrannus, published in 1804. In this year a devoted friend, Isaak von Sinclair,…
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…“Friedensfeier” (“Celebration of Peace”), “Der Einzige” (“The Only One”), and “Patmos,” products of a mind on the verge of madness, are apocalyptic visions of unique grandeur. He also completed verse translations of Sophocles’ Antigone and Oedipus Tyrannus, published in 1804. In this year a devoted friend, Isaak von Sinclair,…
Read More