Overview: In his poem "Who Says Words with My Mouth?", Mewlana Jalaluddin Rumi explores fundamental human questions about identity, spiritual origin, and the nature of existence. Using vivid metaphors (such as a bird trapped in an aviary, a prison for drunks, and an outer observer guiding our speech and senses) Rumi captures the tension between the physical body and the timeless soul.
POEM:
Instructions
Read the poem carefully, paying close attention to Rumi's imagery and questioning. Submit your initial post answering ONE of the prompts below by Aug. 20, at 11:59 P.M. PROVIDE BETWEEN 100-150 WORDS IN YOUR POST. Reply to at least one of your classmates' posts by Aug. 23, at 11:59 P.M., to foster a thoughtful discussion. YOUR PEER REPLY SHOULD BE AT LEAST 50 WORDS. Discussion Prompts
Core Metaphors: Choose one metaphor from the poem (e.g., the bird in the aviary, the "drunkenness" from another tavern, or the "prison for drunks"). What does this image convey about Rumi's view of human physical existence versus spiritual existence? The Unseen Presence: Rumi repeatedly asks who is speaking, hearing, and looking through him (e.g., "Who says words with my mouth? / Who looks out with my eyes?"). How do you interpret this concept? Is he describing divine inspiration, a higher self, or something else entirely? Personal Reflection: Rumi expresses a feeling of being an outsider to this world ("My soul is from elsewhere… I'm like a bird from another continent"). Have you ever encountered a piece of literature, art, or personal experience that captures a similar sense of longing or detachment? Explain how it aligns with or differs from Rumi's perspective.