“Only Breath” (a poem by Rumi on page 353 in the Norton Volume B) is an extraordinary piece of poetry that really grasped my attention and imagination. This poem is a perfect example of how “mystical” and unique Rumi’s style is. The meaning of this poem can be up for interpretation for the audience, since part of the beauty of this work is to not explicitly state the purpose of it. The reading experience requires some creativity on the reader’s side as well. The “two worlds” that are described could mean “mother and father” or “inner self vs. the outside” or even “inner self vs. relationship with God.” For me, the meaning behind this poem is that in reality, regardless of origin/religion/race/ethnicity, we are all humans defined by our breath, co-existence, and survival.
Please let me know if you have any opinions to share about this piece!