Sufism in the Works of Arab-American Writers: Mikhail Naimy and Khalil Gibran
Abstract
Sufism – anchored firmly in the Quran – through capitalisation on the knowledge of inner experience, enlarges man’s claims and holds out the prospect of nothing less than a direct vision of Reality. It is the principle aspect in the literary works of Mikhail Naimy and Khalil Gibran: two prominent writers within the rich tapestry of Arab immigrant literature that emerged in the early 20th century in the United States. Writings of these men of letters express Sufism as a unique intellectual tradition capable of blending the ideas drawn from both Eastern and Western cultures and philosophies harmoniously. This fusion allows them to reconnoitre universal themes of love, existence, and the human condition, and amplifies the resonance of their reflections to a broader audience. Wise thoughts, deeply inspired by Sufi ideology, flowed abundantly through the pens of these distinguished thinkers, which is equally evident in their prose and poetry. Mikhail Naimy’s ‘The Book of Mirdad’ delved into the journey of self-discovery, and his ‘Memoirs of a Vagrant Soul’ portrays the existential struggles of the wandering spirit. Likewise, Khalil Gibran’s ‘Sand and Foam’ is a collection of poetic aphorisms that touches on the intricacies of life and spirituality. A subtle influence of Sufism is mirrored in these master pieces from the Arab immigrant literature. These works also attest authors’ profound quest for society’s enlightenment through the self-realisation of each individual.