Poetry from the 13th Century

13th-century poems offer a vivid glimpse into medieval life, weaving together themes of courtly love, chivalry, and religious devotion. These works, often written in emerging vernacular languages, reflect the social and cultural transformations of the Middle Ages.

These poems are still read today, showcasing the timeless nature to their poetry, transgressing across the ages.

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The Guest House

by Rumi

Rumi’s ‘The Guest House’ is a didactic poem that asks us to view emotions as separate, fleeting entities, coming and going like visitors.

Rumi, the original author of this poem lived from 1207-1273, placing the poem firmly within the 13th century. However, this particular version of the poem was retranslated and reinterpreted by Coleman Barks in the 1960s. Barks' interpretations have brought Rumi's works to a wider western audience, but they also introduce modern linguistic and cultural elements that may not accurately reflect the original context of the 13th century. Therefore, while the essence of Rumi's teachings may still resonate with the 13th-century era, the specific interpretation presented by Barks does not fully align with the literary conventions and cultural nuances of that time.

This being human is a guest house.

Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness,

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When I Die

by Rumi

‘When I Die’ is an incredible Rumi poem about eternal life after death. The poet proposes not to grieve his death as it’s just a means to a new beginning, not an end.

When I die

when my coffin

is being taken out

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Poetry from the 13th Century

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Poetry from the 13th Century

The Guest House

by Rumi

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