MY COMMENTS :
In the work written by Khalil Gibran, a general evaluation of life and people and some observations about life are discussed.
The work written by the philosopher of Lebanese origin contains philosophical messages in situation-based narratives, not event-based as in the author's other books. It should be noted that the philosophical messages are formed especially in the form of some observations from life adorned with abstract messages. Otherwise, it should be stated that there is no abstract narrative like other philosophy books. It is useful to state that this is one of the most important elements that distinguishes the author from other philosophy writers. Because what is important is the development and change of our understanding of directing our lives by looking at the details in our lives with a different eye.
The main character, Mustafa, is also seen as a saint by his close circle and is known by this pen name. The author has conveyed to his readers some of the thoughts and observations he told his people after returning from the ship journey in a literary way. He has also transformed these into philosophical messages with a masterful narration.
Unlike the author's other works, there is a character scheme, albeit symbolic, and it is obvious that the main issue is the messages and observations given.
However, it should be known that we are faced with an author who succeeds in presenting one of the most consistent portraits of a philosopher to his readers, without contradicting the views expressed in his other works and in his different books.
As a result, the work can be considered as one of the books that people of all ages can and should read in one sitting.
MY QUOTATIONS(*) :
This is the rule of the sea and of sailors: if you want freedom, you must return to the mist. The formless forever seeks its form, just as millions of stardust become suns and moons; so we, who have been searching so hard for so long and returned to this island, must once again become mist and learn the beginning.
There are times that enslave the eternity of separation. But separation is nothing more than the end of memory.
Life itself is older than all that lives. Beauty was born before beauty was born, and truth was true before it was spoken.
What a pity for a people who regard bandits as heroes and think that a rich conqueror is generous!
What a pity for a people who do not raise their voice except during burial ceremonies and who only speak when their neck is between the sword and the block!
What a pity for a people whose leaders are cunning, whose scholars are frauds, whose art is copying!
Besides, none of you are stupid; in short, we are neither wise nor foolish. We are green leaves on the tree of life. Life itself is far beyond wisdom and, undoubtedly, beyond stupidity.
Among what you have learned and understood, there is a secret path that you must find before you can become one with people and with yourself.
When you think of your two hands as both giving and receiving, you can bridge the gap between them. Because when you know you have nothing to give and nothing to receive, you overcome the gap.
If there is such a thing as ugliness, it is surely nothing but the veil that covers our eyes and the hatred that stops our ears. Call nothing ugly, my friend, except the fear of a person who brings back memories.
MY EVALUATIONS:
Subject : The work covers a general evaluation of life and people, as well as some observations about life.
Style: The author has chosen a simple and understandable style, as in his other books. However, the messages given with a simple plot have been made understandable by the readers with more concrete examples. It should be stated that the author has been able to successfully apply this method despite writing a situation-based work. For this reason, it should be stated that a more positive style has been preferred compared to his other works.
Originality : Although not in terms of its subject matter, it can be considered among the works that can be considered relatively original in terms of the expression of the messages it contains. However, it should be known that the main purpose is not to create an original work.
Character : In the work, except for the main character named Mustafa, the other supporting characters constantly take on the role of an intermediary in conveying the message that is intended to be given. However, considering the nature of the work, it is understood that it is appropriate to form the maximum character scheme in this way.
Fluency : Considering the issues expressed in the style section, it should be stated that the work is definitely a fluent book that can be easily read in one sitting. However, it should be stated that it is not a gripping work due to its type.
General : In the evaluation made out of 10 according to the criteria stated above:
Subject: 8
Style: 8.5
Originality: 6
Characters: 8
Fluency: 7.5
The overall average of the work, which received 8 points, is 7.6 points . Considering the subject it covers and the messages it contains, it should be stated that it is one of the philosophical books that should definitely be read, even if it does not pass the 8 threshold.
(*) : All parts in the title Quotations:
THE GARDEN OF THE PROPHET
Author : Khalil Gibran
Publisher : Venice Publications
Edition : 1st Edition - February 2021
The photo used on the cover was used as a quote from the book.
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