This is how the heart sounds. Do not change the melody, this now, you and I, here together. Let this being with each other be heart-sound.

The evocative, spiritual poetry of thirteenthcentury Sufi mystic Rumi has inspired people for centuries, and Coleman Barks' stunning translations are unparalleled. This exquisite new collection speaks to the mystery of soul friendship, specifi cally between Rumi and Shams Tabriz, and universally in the relationships we all share.

Jelaluddin Rumi and Shams Tabriz met in 1244 and began a mystical, divine friendship, one not bound to time and space and despite their diff erences. Where Rumi was introspective, loving, and embodied peace and kindness, Shams was wild, brash, and honest—full of a fi ery passion Barks calls "soul fury." Together they shared an eternal friendship that resulted in Rumi's luminous quatrains and the wise Sayings of Shams Tabriz, giving language to the delight of true friendship.