Kahlil Gibran (1883-1931), the Middle Eastern-born poet and artist, acquired cult status in the 1960s as the author of a mystical illustrated psalter called The Prophet, which has sold more than 9 million copies in America since its initial publication in 1923. It has never been out of print and has been translated into over 20 languages. His texts and paintings explore the individual's quest for enlightenment and inner peace outside of the constraints of organized religious institutions. Quasi-mystical but touching the souls of millions, much of his verse has become common parlance, popularly quoted at weddings, christenings and funerals.With insightful commentary from Dr Ayman El-Desouky, the life of this much-loved poet, artist and philosopher is revealed through his works, paintings and personal letters. Drawing from the full body of Kahlil Gibran's work, this sumptuous annotated anthology provides a key to the man behind those writings that have touched the hearts of millions of readers around the world.