Ludwig Rellstab

Born in Berlin on April 13, 1799, Ludwig Rellstab was a German journalist, poet, and music critic. He wrote during a period when literature, music, and public debate were closely connected, and he became known for his vivid writing and strong opinions.

Rellstab worked as a critic and editor, especially in Berlin, and built a reputation as an active voice in German cultural life. His poetry also found a lasting audience through music: several of his poems were later set by composers, most famously by Franz Schubert in the posthumously published collection now known as Schwanengesang.

He died on November 27, 1860. Although he is less widely known as a standalone literary figure today, his work still lives on through the history of German journalism, criticism, and art song.