Selected Poems of Michelangelo Buonarroti

What it is

This is a modern volunteer audio recording (made by LibriVox readers) of a collection called Selected Poems from Michelangelo Buonarroti, first published in 1885 with translations from various sources. The poems themselves were written by Michelangelo, who left behind more than 300 of them, though he downplayed his own skill as a poet.

Why it matters

Michelangelo is best known as a painter and sculptor, but this collection shows he was also a serious poet. Hearing his words, even in translation, lets students see a more personal and reflective side of an artist usually remembered for huge physical works like statues and frescoes.

Look closer

• Why might Michelangelo have downplayed his poetry compared to his art?
• How is this recording different from hearing Michelangelo's actual voice?
• What might poetry reveal about an artist that a sculpture cannot?