Forty Rules of Love: “A Literary Masterpiece”

Exploring Love and Wisdom: A Review of "The Forty Rules of Love"

 

Among the novels of modern literature, there is no doubt the Elif Shafak’s work “The Forty Rules of Love” which is a truly absorbing read and is a true masterpiece in terms of discussing spirituality. The novel does attempt to popularize Rumi’s ideas and Sufism by presenting a clear message through two storylines: one that is present-day, and the other that is historical, revolving around Rumi. It mentions some of the most profound Sufi ideas such as wahdat ul wujood, basirah, fanaa, and ishq-e-haqiqi. The word ‘forty’ in the title of the work translates into forty rules about love, life and the soul.

Among the novels of modern literature, there is no doubt the Elif Shafak’s work “The Forty Rules of Love” which is a truly absorbing read and is a true masterpiece in terms of discussing spirituality. The novel does attempt to popularize Rumi’s ideas and Sufism by presenting a clear message through two storylines: one that is present-day, and the other that is historical, revolving around Rumi. It mentions some of the most profound Sufi ideas such as wahdat ul wujood, basirah, fanaa, and ishq-e-haqiqi. The word ‘forty’ in the title of the work translates into forty rules about love, life and the soul.

The story that Shafak tells successfully oscillates between past and present, enlightening the readers about the real lives of historical characters while presenting the timeless topics of love and people’s relations. The forty principles discussed in the book act as a set of directions; each one of them has a meaning behind them which goes beyond the cultural context and touches upon the core of the human being existence.

Easily one of the finest authors in contemporary Turkey, Shafak’s work contains elements of friendship, love, and spiritual fulfillment in the pursuit of knowledge. Again, readers are taken to a place where feelings are strong and life philosophies are questioned as well as important aspects of life that continually cross one’s mind after putting down the book.

Thus, if the novel “The Forty Rules of Love,” is not only a piece of fiction but a spiritual wayfaring. Using carefully unveiling narrative techniques and a great focus on description, Shafak engages the reader’s critical thinking to make them seek the meaning of themselves and the world. This powerful story provides readers with thought-provoking reflection, after which they would want to embrace some wisdom, love and having someone to embrace.

Therefore, “The Forty Rule of Love” is an incredible book that can be classified in different genres and time epochs as it reveals the fundamental values of the humanism. On the one hand, facts and religious motifs combine within the work in a manner that makes it relevant at any point in time, while on the other, the story presents certain elements that will hold relevance for readers today. This novel is the genuine depiction of love and the evolutionary process of the soul This novel should be read by every one in particular to those who aim for enlightenment in the contemporary world.