FORTY RULES OF LOVE

Just finished this novel by Elif Shafak, which interweaves a modern love story with a retelling of the friendship between Rumi and Shams of Tabriz.  Not a fan of this book, but appreciated learning more about Sufiism.   The book's central theme is love and the  importance of following your heart.  In the end, Ella, the heroine of the book, abandons her husband and family for a man who is dying of cancer. Despite the judgements of friends and family, her bold and unexpected decision is portrayed as a step toward living a more authentic and meaningful life. Should we live to meet our obligations and responsibilities or pursue love and joy?  Shafak explores big themes like this one.  She digs  deep into the meaning of life, the nature of time, the failure of religion and the limitations of words to communicate thoughts.  Ironic that her word choices failed to resonate with me, despite the value of the questions she raised.