"Songs of Kabir" is a collection of poems written by the Indian mystic and poet, Kabir. The book is a translation of Kabir's poems into English by Rabindranath Tagore, a renowned Indian author, and poet. The poems in "Songs of Kabir" reflect Kabir's philosophy and teachings, which are based on a synthesis of Hindu and Islamic spiritual traditions. Kabir's poetry is known for its simplicity and its focus on the divine love that transcends religious boundaries. The poems touch on various themes, such as the nature of God, the search for truth, the human condition, and the unity of all creation. The poems are often presented as dialogues between Kabir and his disciples or between Kabir and God. Tagore's translation captures the beauty and power of Kabir's poetry, making it accessible to English-speaking audiences. "Songs of Kabir" is not only a work of great literary value but also a profound spiritual text that continues to inspire readers around the world.
Rabindranath Tagore was born on May 7, 1861 in a Kolkata, India. He was the son of Debendranath Tagore (1817–1905) and Sarada Devi (1830–1875). Because of his mother’s early death and his father’s frequent travel, he spent most of his childhood with servants. He didn’t like classroom schooling and roamed around Bolpur and Panihati where his family frequently visited. He was married to Mrinalini Devi (1873–1902) when she was 10 years of age. His father also had a keen interest in music and invited several professional Dhrupad musicians to teach music to children. Rabindranath’s original surname was Kushari which was changed to Tagore. He belonged to Pirali Brahmin from the village of Kush in Burdwan district of West Bengal. He is known for reshaping Bengali literature, music and art with modernization. He became the first Non-European and first lyricist to win Nobel Prize in Literature. He was a polymath and wrote poems, short stories, songs, play writer, philosopher and painter. Tagore started writing poems from the age of eight and at the age of sixteen his first poem released under pseudonym Bhānusiṃha. In 1877, his short stories and dramas released under his real name. From 1878 to 1912 he traveled to more than 30 countries on five continents.
