Forty rules of love by Elif Shafaq.

"The Forty Rules of Love" by Elif Shafak: A Review

Turkish writer Elif Shafaq's novel "Forty Rules of Love" connects two parallel narratives centuries apart. One story follows the 13th-century poet Rumi and his spiritual teacher Shams of Tabriz, while the other takes place in the contemporary world, focusing on Ella Rubinstein, a middle-aged housewife who meets Rumi and after reading a novel about Rumi and Shams embarks on a transformational journey.

Plot Overview

Historical Narrative:

The historical narrative describes the mystical bond between Rumi, a famous Sufi poet, and Shams of Tabriz, a wandering dervish. Shams introduces Rumi to the deeper, spiritual dimensions of love, leading to a profound transformation of Rumi into a passionate mystic and poet. This part of the story clearly explores themes of spirituality, love and the essence of Sufism.

Contemporary Narrative:

In a contemporary setting, Ella Rubinstein, a desperate housewife, discovers a manuscript called "Sweet Blasphemy" that tells the story of Rumi and Shams. As she reads, she begins to question her life, beliefs and marriage. His correspondence with the manuscript's author, Aziz Zahra, deepens his self-awareness and takes him on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening.

Themes and Analysis

1. Love and Spirituality:

The novel explores love in its many forms — romantic, spiritual and platonic. It highlights the idea that true love is selfless and transformative, transcending physical and material limitations. Shafaq emphasizes that spiritual love can lead to enlightenment and a deeper understanding of the self and the universe.

2. Transformation and Self-Discovery:

Both narratives focus on characters who are going through significant personal changes. Rumi evolves from a respected scholar to a passionate poet, while Ella transforms from a dissatisfied housewife to an enlightened individual searching for a more meaningful existence.

3. Sufism and Mysticism:

Shafaq provides deep insight into Sufism, a mystical Islamic belief system. Through the character of Shams, she introduces readers to the "Forty rules of Love," which are spiritual principles intended to guide people to a deeper understanding of love and faith.

4. Dual Narratives:

A blend of historical and contemporary narratives highlights the permanence of love and spiritual quest. The historical narrative provides a rich, poetic backdrop that enhances the modern-day story, creating a seamless blend of past and present.

Writing Style

Shafaq's prose is lyrical and evocative, capturing the beauty and depth of the themes she explores. Her ability to weave complex details about Sufism and spirituality into the narrative without overwhelming the reader is admirable. The dual narratives are expertly interwoven, striking a balance between historical and contemporary stories.

Critique

Although "The Forty Rules of Love" has been praised for its poetic language and deep themes, some readers may find its pace slow, especially in the historical sections. Additionally, the depiction of Ella's transformation may come across as somewhat idealistic to some readers. However, these are minor criticisms in an otherwise richly structured and deeply moving novel.

Conclusion

"The Forty Rules of Love" is a thought provoking and beautifully written novel that offers a unique blend of history, spirituality and contemporary fiction. Elif Shafaq's exploration of love, faith and personal transformation resonates deeply, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the mystical dimensions of love and the quest for spiritual enlightenment.