The Essential Rumi translated by Coleman Barks
Paperback published May 28, 2004 by HarperOne
I bought this book of poetry by the thirteenth century Sufi mystic and Persian poet, Rumi, allegedly the most widely read poet in the U.S. A brief story in each chapter is followed by poetry. The first chapter, The Tavern, talks about the drinking of wine.
Chapter 1: The Tavern: Whoever Brought Me Here Will Have to Take Me Home
ON THE TAVERN
In the tavern are many wines - the wine of delight in color and form and taste, the wine of the intellect's agility, the fine port of stories, and the cabernet of soul singing....
All day I think about it, then at night I say it.
Where did I come from, and what am I supposed to be doing?
(Rumi)
I wonder if the word "ruminate" comes from the ruminations of Rumi? In any case, I am thoroughly enjoying this book, which I pick up and put down whenever I'm in the mood, with or without wine :)
Have a Happy New Year everyone!
Lovely review! This book sounds like one to savor. Happy New Year, Harvee!
ReplyDeleteI have heard about Rumni's poetry but never met anyone who actually told me that they read him. I would like to read this someday. I only know a minimal amount about Sufism and really want to know more about it.
ReplyDeleteThe passage that you quoted above is great!
Sounds like a good one, I do enjoy poetry.
ReplyDeleteI've always seen Rumi quoted. Never have seen the whole book. Thank you.
ReplyDelete