Mayakovsky, though his formal education was cut short, pursued a robust self-directed learning path, immersing himself in a diverse array of literature. His readings spanned from biblical texts to the foundational works of nineteenth-century Russian authors. In this literary journey, the influence of Mikhail Lermontov is particularly evident. Lermontov, a figure of tragic rebellion against societal norms, resonated deeply with Mayakovsky’s own sensibilities. Both poets shared an affinity for complex, polysyllabic rhythms and were captivated by the celestial themes of stars, God, and the cosmos.

Lermontov's poetry, imbued with rich cosmic imagery, often depicted interactions among angels, demons, stars, clouds, and the vastness of space. These celestial motifs found their way into visual art as well, inspiring a series of paintings by Mikhail Vrubel, which echoed the fascination with the cosmos prevalent in the years leading up to the Russian Revolution of 1917. This cultural milieu was the backdrop against which Mayakovsky's artistic development unfolded.

The two poets shared more than thematic interests; both were artists in their own right. Mayakovsky honed his skills in formal art education, while Lermontov, despite being a self-taught amateur, maintained a practice of sketching. Tragically, both men also grappled with themes of self-destruction in their work, a somber reflection of their personal struggles.

In "Listen!", Mayakovsky presents a unique depiction of his persona, contrasting the typically brash street urchin with a more vulnerable, childlike character. Here, the persona sheds its usual impudence and cynicism to reveal a voice that is innocently questioning and openly vulnerable. This childlike figure engages with a father-God, approaching with familiarity and an immense request for stars. The relationship is depicted with a touching immediacy; the child rushes to meet God, hopeful and trusting, anxious not to be "late," much like a child hurrying home for dinner. The gesture of kissing God's “veiny” hand evokes the traditional image of a child paying respects to a parent in prerevolutionary Russia.

The poem opens the possibility of a cosmic parent, suggesting a profound change in Mayakovsky's relationship with God. This shift is illustrated through the juxtaposition of contrasting personas: the trusting child and the disillusioned youth. The child, a nameless "somebody," finds solace in faith, whereas the youth challenges divine authority, mocking God and seeking self-glorification. This self-assertion, this desire to inscribe his own name across everything, is acknowledged by the youth as a "tragedy," highlighting the tension between childlike faith and youthful skepticism. "Listen!" ultimately bridges these two personas, capturing a poignant moment of introspection and transformation in the poet’s spiritual journey.

Throughout Vladimir Mayakovsky’s life, the imagery of stars and the cosmos served as a profound source of inspiration. In his long poem, Oblako v shtanakh (1915; translated as The Cloud In Trousers), this celestial theme culminates in a striking metaphor that envisions the universe as a colossal being in repose: “The universe is asleep/ its huge ear,/ star-infested,/ rests on a paw.” This vivid depiction suggests a universe alive with cosmic whispers, teeming with stars that twinkle like thoughts in a sleeping giant’s mind.

In his final lyric poem, “Past One O’Clock,” Mayakovsky continued to weave the enchantment of night into his verses. This poem, poignantly quoted in his suicide note, captures the heavy, contemplative ambiance of the nocturnal sky: “Night has laid a heavy tax of stars upon the sky./ In hours like these you get up and you speak/ To the ages, to history, and to the universe.” Here, Mayakovsky evokes a sense of timelessness and a connection to the vast expanse of existence, where the quiet solitude of night becomes a moment to converse with the infinite. The stars, as ever, remain steadfast witnesses to human thought and emotion, anchoring Mayakovsky's poetic exploration of the universe and his place within it.