Kahlil Gibran’s Little Book of Love

Edited and with an introduction and notes by Neil Douglas-Klotz

“A compelling read for seekers and contemplators.”–Library Journal.

Kahlil Gibran’s aphorisms, stories, and poetry on a theme remain among some of those best known to Western readers. His views, however, extend beyond the most-quoted “greeting card” sayings to a wide realm of human emotions and relationships–passion, desire, idealized love, justice, friendship, and the challenges of dealing with strangers, neighbors, and enemies. This little book captures love and life in all of their complexities and nuances.

This little volume includes over 90 selections from Gibran’s writings and is divided into four sections: Love’s Initiation, The Veils of Love, All of Our Relationships and A Love Beyond.

This book, ideal for all gift-giving occasions, is informative, illuminating, and inspirational.

Whom Do We Love?
When I stood, a clear mirror before you,
you gazed into me and saw your image.
Then you said, “I love you.”
But in truth you loved yourself in me.
Love is the veil between lover and lover.

Unsealing the Heart
How shall my heart be unsealed
unless it be broken?
Only great sorrow or great joy
can reveal your truth.
If you would be revealed
you must either
dance naked in the sun
or carry your cross.

“Gibran (1883–1931) is most often remembered for The Prophet (1923), a collection of inspirational fables that has never been out of print. His cultural references are clearly Middle Eastern, with influences from Islam as well as Baha’i. However, Gibran is more than the sum of these small parts. Born in Lebanon as a Maronite Catholic, Gibran eventually immigrated to the States, finding success as a visual artist, poet, and writer (in Arabic as well as English) of both philosophical and theological books. Editor Douglas-Klotz writes that his autobiographical writing often “stretches credibility” and his own life should not be idealized. Nevertheless, this book attempts to expand the readability of Gibran through 90 selections from his entire oeuvre, focusing particularly upon his musings on love and relationships. Most entries are a page or two long and move far beyond the pithy and quotable into realms of deeper reflection. VERDICT: A compelling read for seekers and contemplators. The time line of Gibran’s life as well as recommended biographies round out this accessible introduction.”–Library Journal

Paperback: 224 pages, Hampton Roads Publishing (October 1, 2018).

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