A Poet of the Invisible World Quotes

“The journey was thrilling. Inspiring. Exalting. And, in the end, it did not change a thing. “You would never have believed me if I’d told you,” said Sheikh al-Khammas. “You had to learn the truth for yourself: the real Holy City is within.”
― Michael Golding, A Poet of the Invisible World

“When Nouri said that he wanted to be with God, Ibn Arwani said: “First you must learn who ‘you’ are. Then you must learn what it means to ‘want.’ What it means to ‘be.’ Then you must learn what ‘God’ is. Otherwise, it’s just a game. A pretense.”
― Michael Golding, A Poet of the Invisible World

“As Nouri entered the sacred space, he could feel his breath catch and a shiver run down his spine. The floor was lined with fine woven carpets, the walls were graced with filigreed windows, and the dome—which spread out over their heads—was richly painted with flowers and leaves and suns and moons and stars. But what thrilled Nouri the most was the fact that wherever he looked—on the walls—on the doors—on the frieze that ran in a circle beneath the dome—were the most exquisitely calligraphed words.”
― Michael Golding, A Poet of the Invisible World

“IF THE DISTANCE BETWEEN God and man is even greater than we imagine,” said Ryka, “how do we bridge the gap?” “We must learn how to serve,” said Nouri. “But what can a man possibly do that would matter to God?” “It’s not what he does that matters. It’s how he does it.” Nouri paused. “Service wears out our sharp edges. And opens the heart.”
― Michael Golding, A Poet of the Invisible World

“Whatever you’ve been through, it was designed to make you stronger.” “I know that,” said Nouri. “But I can’t stop the difficult thoughts from coming.” “Let them come,” said Sheikh al-Khammas. “And then let them go.” “When I let them come, I feel like I’m on fire.” “Fire purifies. If you don’t resist, it will burn off the poisons in your heart.” Nouri wasn’t sure that he could bear the heat. But he tried his best to follow Sheikh al-Khammas’s advice.”
― Michael Golding, A Poet of the Invisible World

“You’re not normal!” she hissed. Then she gathered her garments and ran off into the night. Nouri lay back and looked up at the stars. He did not know what it meant to be normal. He only knew what it meant to be Nouri. Who had four ears. And was far from home. And was trying to find his way back to God. So he rose from the bench and made his way to his room, where he finally gave over to his crushing fatigue.”
― Michael Golding, A Poet of the Invisible World