![]() In the light of his youth, these works establish unquestioned achievement in literary and philosophic artistry, since they would have been classics coming even at an age of experienced wisdom and mellowness of years. A surprising aspect of many of the writings in this, the largest and most comprehensive volume of Gibran’s works ever published, is found in the fact that he was scarcely twenty years old when they were composed and set loose upon the world. Gibran has a specific, recognizable message to convey, and the simplicity of his style-whether in delicacy or in bitter invective-brings that message to the inner consciousness of the reader quickly, clearly, and effortlessly. Hundreds of Gibran’s oil paintings are on permanent exhibit in a Lebanese museum erected solely as the repository for these works, and numerous of his paintings and drawings are displayed periodically in the large capitals and art centers of the world. As for his handling of materials and his artistry of representation, all that need be said is that when Auguste Rodin wished to have his own portrait done, he bypassed the multitude of accomplished and aspiring painters of his day and insisted that Gibran execute the project. ![]() ![]() The searching depths of mysticism, the unfettered glory of youth, and the Elysian beauty of death join forces to render his canvases remarkably fascinating and unique. Philosopher and artist, his dynamic brush is no less disturbing than his pen. But he could also write with a scorch like fire. After an attempted analysis that ended in utter despair, a group of scholars at a leading American university could only conclude, Gibran could write timeless truths in a way that makes the reader feel he is taking a walk in a quiet wood, or bathing in a cool stream it soothes the spirit. This strange man, born in the shadow of the Holy Cedars of Lebanon, exhibits a weirdly beautiful approach to life and death in all of his writings, never fully revealing the purpose behind his abrupt and intense changes in thought and style … from the laciest and tenderest language and meaning to the bitterest and angriest outpourings known to literature. The brilliance of Gibran will ever continue to surprise and perplex his millions of followers in dozens of languages. It is quickly dispelled, however, for one soon realizes that Gibran is of all ages. The delicacy of his mind, the visions of his inner eyes, and the vast but simple insight displayed by his every parable combine to present a momentary incongruity. Small wonder, then, that the reader never ceases to be amazed at Gibran’s recency to this world and age (1883–1931). THE IMMORTAL WRITINGS of Kahlil Gibran, the Prophet of Lebanon, possess a rare and distinctive flavor of ancient wisdom and mysticism that is equaled by few-if any-in the history of world literature.
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