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kaelynputnam's review against another edition
4.0
I found moments of deep realization and deep confusion while reading this book. The confusion came from things that I probably just haven't lived enough to understand yet. I will probably read this collection once every few years to grow this understanding. I can't wait to come back to it!!
coffeewithcut's review against another edition
challenging
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
slow-paced
5.0
To read Rumi's poetry is as close to heaven as a person might get during their life.
61057974's review against another edition
1.0
Without a doubt, my most regrettable read. This book is titled "The Essential Rumi" but should read "Freeverse in the Spirit of Rumi". The cover features "Translation by Coleman Barks" but Barks cannot speak/read/write in the Persian language — the language I feel was custom built for Rumi's vivid poetry. As I'm not the first to mention, Barks noticeably minimizes the Islamic influences of the world's most fascinating religious mystic, and one whose mind swirled day and night with ideas on the transcendent presence of God in him and the concept of 'ana al-Haqq'. I'm thankful for the fame Barks has brought Rumi in the U.S., except that this book is a complete bait-and-switch.
bookwyrmreadstoomuch's review against another edition
challenging
funny
informative
reflective
relaxing
slow-paced
4.0
Very interesting.
zenpigeon's review against another edition
5.0
A spiritual text that always seems to put me back on track of my goals and dreams. I could come back to this book many times and find a different book for that time in my life. I look forward to reading the other translations and works of Rumi.
sutoscience's review against another edition
4.0
One of my favorite yoga teachers quotes Rumi all the time during class, so I finally dove into his poetry. Highly recommend, especially a book like this which offers a framework and a little historical context.