The Purity of Desire

Book excerpt: The first full-length volume of Rumi’s cherished verse, from bestselling poet Daniel Ladinsky Renowned for his poignant renderings of mystical texts, here Daniel Ladinsky captures the beauty, intimacy, and musicality of one of Islam’s most beloved poets and spiritual thinkers. With learned insight and a delicate touch, this work explores the nuances of desire—that universal emotion—in verse inspired by Rumi’s love and admiration for his companion and spiritual teacher, Shams-e Tabriz. These poems thoughtfully capture the compelling wisdom of one of Islam’s most revered artistic and religious voices and one of the most widely read poets in the English language. The Purity of Desire is an essential volume for anyone looking to feel their soul awakened.