Give Me Love and Work These Two Only: An In-Depth Analysis

"Give Me Love and Work These Two Only" is a timeless piece of poetry penned by the renowned Persian poet Rumi in the 13th century. This evocative poem captures the essence of human existence, delving into the fundamental elements that truly matter: love and work. Through a series of vivid metaphors and profound insights, Rumi paints a compelling picture of what constitutes a meaningful and fulfilling life.

The Art and Craft of Printing: "Give me love and work, these two only."

by William Morris

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	157 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	70 pages

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The Essence of Love

At the heart of the poem, Rumi exalts the transformative power of love. He implores the reader to "give me love," not just as a transient emotion but as an all-encompassing force that permeates one's entire being. Love, according to Rumi, is the driving force behind everything that is good and beautiful in the world. It is the flame that ignites the soul, the glue that binds humanity together, and the foundation upon which a truly meaningful life is built.

The Value of Work

Equally important to love, Rumi emphasizes the significance of work. He urges the reader to "give me work," not merely as a means of earning a livelihood but as a path to self-fulfillment. Work, in Rumi's view, is not a burden to be endured but rather an opportunity to contribute to the world and leave a lasting legacy. It is through work that we find purpose, develop our talents, and experience the satisfaction of accomplishment.

The Interdependence of Love and Work

Rumi's poem highlights the profound interdependence between love and work. He suggests that these two elements are not mutually exclusive but rather complementary forces that enrich and enhance each other. Love provides the inspiration and motivation for our work, while work gives us a tangible way to express our love for others and the world around us.

The Path to True Fulfillment

In the final lines of the poem, Rumi reveals his ultimate aspiration:

By embracing both love and work, Rumi suggests, we open ourselves up to the possibility of a truly fulfilling existence. When we live our lives with love and purpose, we experience a deep sense of contentment, meaning, and connection to the universe.

Symbolism and Imagery

Throughout the poem, Rumi employs a rich tapestry of symbolism and imagery to convey his message. The "flame" that ignites the soul represents the transformative power of love, while the "path" of work symbolizes the journey of self-discovery and fulfillment. The "two hands" that Rumi mentions represent the balance between love and work, and the "see what happens" metaphor suggests the element of uncertainty and adventure that comes with embracing this path.

Relevance to Modern Times

Centuries after its composition, "Give Me Love and Work These Two Only" remains as relevant and resonant as ever. In an increasingly fast-paced and materialistic world, Rumi's message serves as a timeless reminder of what truly constitutes a meaningful life. By prioritizing love and work, we find purpose, fulfillment, and a deep sense of connection to ourselves, others, and the world around us.

"Give Me Love and Work These Two Only" is a profound and moving poem that invites us to reflect on the essence of human existence. Through its evocative language, powerful imagery, and timeless message, Rumi reminds us that love and work are the two fundamental pillars upon which a truly fulfilling life is built. By embracing both these elements, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities, meaning, and connection.

The Art and Craft of Printing: "Give me love and work, these two only."

by William Morris

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	157 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	70 pages

FREE