It is unfortunate that most readers are introduced to Rumi through the "interpretations" of Coleman Barks (you'll notice I didn't say translations). A. J. Arberry's tranlslations are where readers should start; as a matter of fact Barks himself said that he uses Arberry's translations, which should speak volumes in itself. Arberry stays very close to the literal readings and the notes he provides are invaluable when reading these poems. There are a few places where the notes prove very helpful because Rumi plays on words a lot and the double meanings would have went over my head otherwise. And because Rumi's original works haven't survived there are several versions of what might be called his "original" poetry. The differences, when they arise, are included in the notes and there are a few instances where the alternate reading makes more sense than the one given. If you are an avid reader of Rumi or looking for an introduction, this book and its companion volume are a must have.

This 2 volume set of translations by Arberry and the translations by Nicholson are the best readily available. Numerous "renderings" by popular writers littering the bookstores fail to even touch the depth and layers of meaning to be found in Rumi. These are works of spiritual power brought to life for the english reader by a scholar in the language and history of the Sufi traditions. If you want the real thing, this is it.

This translation gives you a smooth English rendition, a beautiful calligraphic version, a structural, word-by-word English explanation, as well as a romanized version of the original language. If you are interested in trying to see *beyond* the final translation, this book is very interesting! I do not know Farsi at all, much less Farsi of Rumi's era, but I learned *much* from this set of translations. It has also made it much easier for me to refer to and talk about Rumi's poems with Irani friends.

This is the best book for understanding the poetry of Rumi. It invites readers to see the exquisite calligraphy of these words, to hear their resonance in Rumi's Persian language, and to see for themselves how these words have been translated into English poems. This is the most complete experience of Rumi found in English translation -- beginners to scholars could benefit from this work. Each page is magical and meticulously well-wrought. I was inspired to examine Rumi's poetry for myself and the experience transformed my own poetic ideas. This is the only Rumi book out there like this. It is a gift -- especially if you buy it for yourself!

Long ago, when I was in Iran, my best friend told me the story of "Molavi and Shams-e Tabrizi." "Molavi" is the normal way to refer to the poet we call "Rumi."

In essence, he told me that Rumi encountered Shams-e Tabrizi at a class Rumi was teaching, and fell instantly in love with him. This mutual love was so strong that the two friends began to spend all their time together, to such a point that Rumi's students complained, and Shams was forced to leave town.

At that point, Rumi began writing this book: "The Divan of Shams-e-Tabrizi." He didn't even put his own name on it, he felt so strongly as one with his friend.

I now discover, some twenty years later, that the entire story is true, and quite well-known! The only part my friend left out is that he rather permitted me to imagine Shams as a young man of outstanding beauty. In fact, Shams was a 60-year-old man of outstanding wisdom (and perhaps beauty as well). Rumi was in his early thirties.

A meeting which changed both lives forever. Before meeting Shams, Rumi never wrote a word of poetry, and apparently never considered doing such a thing.

This small book is a classic which I will be sure to keep at my side forever, and to give to friends as well.

I love the poetry of Rumi. This book, to me, is the absolute best collection of them all! The introduction, by James Cowan, includes the best essay I have ever read on Rumi's experience with Shems, and really speaks to the greater subject of human friendship itself. I swear! Read the first 30 pages and you will be sold on this book by the introduction alone! This book is a nicely bound hardback, and is one of my favorite gifts to give to close friends and those who enjoy Rumi's work. You do not have to believe in mysticism or belong to any religious creed to enjoy the simple beauty of Rumi's work.

This is a delightful edition which includes an introduction into the life of Rumi and each selection of poetry is accompanied by copious explanatory notes. Long out of print, this text is now included as the first half of the new "A Rumi Anthology" published by OneWorld.

An awe-inspiring collection of mystical poetry by 13th century sufi master Jaladin Rumi. Gorgeous, compact musings on time, god, love & nature by the Willaim Blake of medieval Iran.

An excellent translation. He who reads this book will try to remember all that is in it.

Rumi's poetry crosses time, penetrates to our very essence. Coleman Bark's translations melt in your mouth.

If I were stuck on that proverbial desert island with just one book, this would be it. I've read these graceful four line poems over and over, and every time gain fresh insight. The genius of this work is that it can be read on so many different levels--give it to a couple newly in love and they can read it to each other as a book of love poems. Give it to a serious seeker of God and they will understand the love and beloved of the poems to be the relationship between Rumi and God, and the ecstasy of real communion with God...either way, this poems are beautiful and infinite. I brought this book to Afghanistan (where Rumi was born) and found the love of this poet (who they know as Bahlki) to be a bond, and we translated many poems back and forth...there are many more. BUY this book! And buy five copies to give to friends. Even people who think they don't like or read poetry end up loving this book, especially if they are on the path to God.

For the mystically inclined, Moyne and Barks translation of this collection of Rumi quatrains, is an "evocative" excursion into that "realm"..the realm of the "mystical". Truly, a source of contemplation and deep wisdom, the book also "tests" "traditional" concepts and notions related to...the "boundaries" of love. But, Rumi was a truly "enlightened" being, and, therefore although...a being whose words will "stretch" our mind...he will never be talking about anything but..the "divine" in essence. This particular collection by Moyne and Barks...speaks a little more "specifically" to the aspect of "longing" in the "spiritual search".

"Dardedel" is a glorious read -- nourished with whimsy, irony, compelling plot twists and passion. I commend this lovely work of verse to everyone from students of classical Middle Eastern literature to lovers of contemporary fiction. There is something for everyone in Manoucher Parvin's prose.

This was my first and still my favorite translation of Rumi. Beutifully and divinely inspired translations to make the spirit soar. It is a shame that it is out of print. If you ever see a copy in a used book store - get it! It will soon become your favorite Rumi translation too.

REMAIN SILENT, DON'T SAY A WORD, OPEN YOUR HEART AND YOU WILL KNOW.

For those who know Rumi, here at last is a translation and presentation whose majesty match the wisdom of the message. For those who do not yet know Rumi, this exquisite book opens a window to insights that will always be treasured.