Joe Martin (3) (1953–)

The Mathnavi is an epic poem in scope. In the original a multi-volume work. the Oxford edition of Book one alone is more than two hundred pages long. So, a slight play may seem an unlikely way to approach this complex work of literature. However, more than just approaching, the theatre adaptaion of Rumi's Mathnavi by Joe Martin captures the essence of the larger poem.

The play, in two acts, manages to encompass much of the atmosphere through metaphorical images from Rumi's poetic world. show more Moments in the play encompass thoughts both serious and inspirational with the suggestion of more beyond this world. Yet a touch of the humor of the original is there as well. I found this work an accomplishment that works in its ability to suggest the world of the epic poem. It inspired in my imagination the even greater results that could be achieved in the staging of this impressive adaptation. The informative afterword on the staging of Rumi's Mathnavi was a helpful adjunct to the play itself. show less

I thoroughly enjoyed various pieces of the adaptation, but am not entirely sure if it gelled as an overall work. The translation was clear and adept and conveyed the playfulness and joy of Rumi, but the structure of the skits left me disoriented at times

An intriguing theatrical piece that undoubtedly plays better than it reads. In the afterword, the dramatist makes a fervent plea for the importance of Rumi's work in today's world, and certainly the popularity of Rumi's poetry is an indication of that.

A gifted director could certainly bring this piece to life and have it resonate on the stage, but as a play to read, this only gives the audience a limited and somewhat flat representation of Rumi's work.

The Mathnavi is a multi-volume work; show more this slim volume can only hint at the complexity of that work. show less

I found the adaptation of the Mathnavi for dramatic presentation to be ambitious and at least partially successful. Successful in the sense of capturing the feel of the work, and in earnestness. Unsuccessful in capturing the sensual magnetism of the original. Worth reading, but I would not recommend buying at this time.