What we’re about
A fortnightly Sunday morning discussion group in a cafe to explore the great mystic poet Rumi. We often go for lunch together informally after the meeting too, which anyone is welcome to join.
Jelaluddin Rumi, who was born near Balkh in Afghanistan in 1207, is one of the greatest mystic poets, exponents of Love as the true meaning of life, and a lover of music and dance as a path to unity with the Divine Beloved. Rooted deeply in his Islamic faith, Rumi had students and friends among all religions and many nationalities, a diversity which continues down to this day. His son created the famous Whirling Dervish sufi order in his memory. Rumi's poetry is read around the world - from being the best selling poet for many years in America recently, a national treasure in Turkey and Iran, and the inspiration for classical and ecstatic music in the Indian subcontinent.
Each session we'll read a poem by Rumi, discussing it as poetry and also reflecting on what it could mean put in practice in our lives. We'll read a whole range of Rumi's poetry in translation, using both literal versions to get close to his words and images, and the many inspired versions by modern poets who seek to capture the spirit behind the words.
Anyone is welcome, from any background.
