Prophet: The Life and Times of Kahlil Gibran by Robin Waterfield

“Prophet: The Life and Times of Kahlil Gibran” is a biography of the Lebanese-American poet, artist, and writer Kahlil Gibran, written by Robin Waterfield. The book provides a detailed and intimate look at Gibran’s life, from his early years in Lebanon to his eventual rise to international fame.

The biography delves into Gibran’s personal relationships, including his close friendship with the wealthy patron Mary Haskell, whom he met in Boston in 1908. Haskell supported Gibran both emotionally and financially, and her influence is evident in his work, particularly in his most famous book, “The Prophet”.

In addition to exploring Gibran’s personal life, “Prophet” also examines his artistic and intellectual influences, including the Romantic poets, the Bible, and Eastern philosophy. The book provides a detailed analysis of Gibran’s most famous works, including “The Prophet”, “The Broken Wings”, and “Jesus, The Son of Man”.

Waterfield situates Gibran’s work within the cultural and political context of the early 20th century, including the rise of nationalism in the Middle East and the growing interest in Eastern spirituality in the West. He also examines Gibran’s legacy and the ongoing impact of his work on modern literature and art.

Overall, “Prophet” is a comprehensive and engaging biography of one of the most influential and enduring writers of the 20th century. It offers a detailed and nuanced portrait of Gibran’s life and work, and provides valuable insights into the cultural and intellectual currents of his time.