Khalil Gibran’s Broken Wings is a poetic novel of tragic love, set in turn-of-the-century Beirut. Selma Karamy is betrothed to a prominent religious man’s nephew but meets a young man and they fall in love. They begin to meet in secret, are discovered, and Selma is forbidden to leave her house. Broken Wings highlights the social issues of the time in the Eastern Mediterranean, including religious corruption, the rights of women and of wealth and happiness. Khalil Gibran was a Lebanese-American artist, poet, and writer. As a young man he emigrated with his family to the United States where he studied art and began his literary career. His Romantic style was at the heart of a renaissance in modern Arabic literature he is still celebrated as a literary hero.
Embark on a timeless journey of forbidden love and social awakening with Kahlil Gibran's poignant masterpiece, *The Broken Wings*. This beautifully crafted poetic novel, set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Beirut, weaves a tale of passion, societal constraints, and the enduring spirit of the human heart. Experience the blossoming romance between Selma Karamy, a woman promised to a powerful religious figure's relative, and a young, idealistic man who ignites her soul. Their secret meetings, filled with stolen moments of joy and shared dreams, are soon threatened by the oppressive forces of tradition and societal expectations. Gibran masterfully uses Selma and her lover's story to expose the deep-seated social issues that plagued the Eastern Mediterranean during this era. Delve into the themes of religious hypocrisy, the stifling limitations placed upon women, and the corrosive influence of wealth on genuine happiness. *The Broken Wings* is more than just a love story; it's a powerful critique of a society struggling to reconcile its past with the burgeoning ideals of modernity. Explore how Selma's forced confinement within her home becomes a potent symbol of the era's restrictions on female agency and freedom. Kahlil Gibran, the Lebanese-American poet, artist, and writer, infuses *The Broken Wings* with his signature Romantic style and lyrical prose. This novel is a testament to his profound understanding of human emotions and his unwavering commitment to social justice. Before achieving international fame with *The Prophet*, Gibran laid the groundwork for his literary legacy with works like this, solidifying his role as a pivotal figure in the renaissance of modern Arabic literature. Gibran's writing invites readers to contemplate the true meaning of love, freedom, and the courage to challenge the status quo. His experience as an immigrant profoundly influenced his perspective, shaping his ability to illuminate both the beauty and the struggles inherent in the human condition. Often compared to William Blake and other Romantic poets, Gibran's work resonates with readers seeking profound insights into the human spirit. *The Broken Wings* allows one to immerse themselves in turn-of-the-century Beirut, experiencing its vibrant culture alongside its social inequalities. It's a perfect read for fans of classic literature, romance novels with depth, and stories that explore the intersection of personal relationships and societal change. Discover why Kahlil Gibran continues to be celebrated as a literary hero whose words transcend time and culture. A moving portrait of love and loss, *The Broken Wings* will stay with you long after you turn the final page.