3 Review(s)

"The Forty Rules of Love" by Elif Shafak tells two parallel stories that intersect across time and cultures. The first narrative follows Ella, a forty-year-old American housewife who rediscovers passion and purpose through reading a novel about the Sufi poet Rumi and his mentor Shams of Tabriz. The second narrative is the novel "Sweet Blasphemy," which explores the life and teachings of Shams and his transformative influence on Rumi. The book delves into themes of love, spirituality, and the search for meaning, highlighting the forty rules of love that Shams imparts to Rumi, which challenge conventional wisdom and societal norms. Here's a more detailed breakdown:Two Narratives:The novel intertwines the contemporary story of Ella, an unhappy housewife, with the historical narrative of Rumi and Shams in 13th-century Persia. Ella's Journey:Ella, initially feeling unfulfilled in her life, takes a job reviewing a manuscript titled "Sweet Blasphemy." This book, centered on Rumi and Shams, sparks her self-discovery and leads her to question her own life choices and the lack of love she feels. Rumi and Shams:The "Sweet Blasphemy" narrative introduces Shams, a wandering dervish, who becomes Rumi's spiritual guide. Shams challenges Rumi's intellectualism and introduces him to a more profound, experiential understanding of love and spirituality. The Forty Rules:The core of the novel lies in the forty rules that Shams shares with Rumi. These rules are not presented as a rigid set of commandments but rather as guiding principles for living a life of love and connection with the divine and with others. Themes of Love and Spirituality:The book explores the multifaceted nature of love, encompassing romantic love, spiritual love, and the love of God. It also delves into the Sufi concept of finding God within oneself and the importance of self-knowledge. Impact on Ella:As Ella reads about Rumi and Shams, she begins to apply their lessons to her own life, leading to personal growth, a re-evaluation of her relationships, and a newfound sense of purpose. Connection between Narratives:The two stories mirror each other, with Ella's journey echoing Rumi's transformation and highlighting the universal search for love and meaning.