Rumi: The Book of Love: Poems of Ecstasy and Longing

by Rumi, translated by Coleman Banks
Rumi: The Book of Love: Poems of Ecstasy and Longing cover
Good Books rating 4.38
Poetry
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  • ID: 1489
  • Added: 2025-10-07
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • ISBN: 9780061753404
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published: 2009-10-13
  • Formats: 11
  • Reviews: 4

Rumi: The Book of Love is a captivating collection of poems by the renowned Sufi mystic Rumi, translated by Coleman Barks. This compilation brings together some of Rumi's most exquisite works, focusing on the theme of love in its various dimensions—divine, earthly, and self-love. Barks' translations are celebrated for their ability to breathe new life into Rumi's timeless verses, making them accessible and resonant for modern readers. The poems in this collection are not just about romantic love but also about the deeper, spiritual connection that transcends the physical. Rumi's words, as interpreted by Barks, invite readers to reflect on the essence of love and its transformative power. This gorgeously packaged book is a must-have for poetry enthusiasts and anyone seeking inspiration from one of the world's most beloved poets.

Reviews
Facebook · 2025-10-07
transformative 4.50

The collection is praised for its ability to touch the heart and soul, offering a deep connection to the inner lover. The reviewer finds the poems to be both delightful and wise.

The reviewer expresses how the poems in this collection have the power to open one's heart and soul to the various dimensions of love. They appreciate the delightful and wise renderings by Coleman Barks, which make the poems accessible and profound. The reviewer also notes that the collection offers a deep connection to the inner lover, making it a transformative reading experience. They highlight the beauty and wisdom contained within the poems, which resonate on a deeply personal level.

Quick quotes

    In Coleman Barks' delightful and wise renderings, these poems will open your heart and soul to the lover inside and out.

    There are lovers content with longing; simply let the wave rise and fall.

    The beauty we love is what we do; there are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground.

Amazon India · 2025-10-07
inspiring 4.50

This collection beautifully captures Rumi's exploration of love in all its forms, from romantic to divine. The translations by Coleman Barks are praised for their accessibility and emotional resonance.

This collection is celebrated for its deep dive into the various facets of love, as seen through Rumi's mystical lens. The reviewer highlights how Coleman Barks' translations make these ancient poems feel fresh and relevant, resonating with modern readers. They particularly appreciate the way the poems convey both the ecstasy and the longing inherent in love, making it a profound and moving read. The reviewer also notes that the collection is a great introduction to Rumi's work for those new to his poetry.

Quick quotes

    Coleman Barks collects here the best of those poems, ranging from the 'wholeness' one experiences with a true lover, to the grief of a lover's loss.

    The translations are praised for their accessibility and emotional resonance.

    The collection is a great introduction to Rumi's work for those new to his poetry.

Goodreads · 2025-10-07
profound 4.00

The collection is praised for its spiritual depth and the way it expresses the longing of the soul for union with the divine. Readers find it both profound and moving.

Rumi's poetry is often seen as a bridge between the earthly and the divine, and this collection is no different. The reviewer notes how Rumi's words have the power to inspire and uplift, making them a source of comfort and wisdom. The poems are celebrated for their ability to touch the heart and soul, offering a sense of peace and connection. The reviewer appreciates the translator's work in making Rumi's poetry accessible to a wider audience. The collection is seen as a valuable resource for those seeking spiritual insight and emotional depth, making it a must-read for anyone interested in Sufism and its teachings.

Quick quotes

    Sufism inspired writings of Persian poet and mystic Jalal ad-Din Muhammad ar-Rumi.

    These writings express the longing of the soul for union with the divine.

    Rumi's finest poems of love and lovers will open your heart and soul to the lover inside and out.

Daily Time Poems · 2022-09-16
timeless 4.50

This collection is a treasure trove of Rumi's finest poems, offering a deep dive into the ecstasies and mysteries of love. The poems are celebrated for their ability to touch the heart and soul.

Rumi's poetry is often described as a journey through the various facets of love, and this collection is no exception. The reviewer highlights how Rumi's words have the power to evoke deep emotions and contemplation. The poems are not just about romantic love but also explore divine love and the love between friends. The reviewer appreciates the translator's efforts in bringing Rumi's work to a modern audience, making it accessible and relatable. The collection is seen as a valuable addition to any poetry lover's library, offering timeless wisdom and beauty.

Quick quotes

    Rumi's work is featured in a plethora of collections and anthologies.

    Rumi, the ultimate poet of love, explores all 'the magnificent regions of the heart.'

    Rumi's poetry beautifully captures the essence of love in all its forms.

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