Welcome to New Dimensions Radio!
How does a body of poetry written in a remote part of the world find it's way to "best-seller" lists published in leading newspapers in the U.S. over seven hundred years later? What is the compelling quality inherent in great literature that resonates throughout the ages? Coleman Barks, poet and translator of Jelalludin Rumi's poetry, explores the genius, mystery and rapture of Rumi's work; why he has become the most-read poet in America, and what his poetry has in common with the immortal writings of Dickinson, Emerson and Thoreau. "His poetry reflects the transcendent longing that we all feel," says Barks. "Rumi speaks to the times. He sees the divine in grace and kindness, and also in the terrible things, revealing to us the ecstasy that resides at the deepest core of all experience, and the way out of sorrow." (hosted by Michael Toms)
To learn more about the work of Coleman Barks go to www.colemanbarks.com.
Host: Michael Toms Interview Date: 10/5/2001 Program Number: 2893