The Forty Rules of Love by Elif Shafak is a novel that intertwines two parallel narratives, one set in the 13th century and the other in contemporary times, exploring themes of love, spirituality, and self-discovery.
The contemporary story follows Ella Rubinstein, a forty-year-old housewife and mother living in Northampton, Massachusetts. Ella is in an unfulfilling marriage and feels a deep sense of dissatisfaction with her life. She takes a job as a reader for a literary agency and her first assignment is to review a manuscript titled Sweet Blasphemy by a mysterious author named Aziz Zahara.
As Ella reads Sweet Blasphemy, she becomes deeply engrossed in the story of Shams of Tabriz, a wandering dervish, and his transformative friendship with the renowned poet Rumi. Set in the 13th century, this narrative explores the spiritual journey of Rumi, who evolves from a respected but conventional cleric into a passionate and enlightened poet, thanks to the unconventional wisdom and guidance of Shams. The book presents the "forty rules of love" that Shams imparts, which challenge conventional beliefs and advocate for a deeper, more mystical understanding of love and the divine.
Inspired by the manuscript, Ella begins to correspond with Aziz, and through their exchanges, she starts to question her own life choices and beliefs. Her journey of self-discovery mirrors Rumi's, as she learns to embrace love, spirituality, and the possibility of personal transformation.
The novel is a rich tapestry of historical and contemporary elements, weaving together philosophical insights, poetic expressions, and emotional depth. Shafak's eloquent prose and ability to create vivid, memorable characters make The Forty Rules of Love a compelling exploration of the enduring power of love and the importance of living authentically.
Through the dual narratives, the reader is invited to contemplate the nature of love, the value of spiritual awakening, and the courage required to break free from societal and personal constraints. The Forty Rules of Love is a profound and moving novel that resonates with timeless wisdom and universal truths.
