"The Essential Rumi" is a collection of poems by the 13th-century Persian poet and mystic, Rumi (Jalāl ad-Dīn Muhammad Balkhī), translated into English by Coleman Barks. The book includes selections from Rumi's works, including the "Mathnawi," "Divan-e Shams," and "Rubaiyat," among others. The poems explore themes of love, spirituality, and the human experience, drawing on Sufi mysticism and Islamic theology. Rumi's poetry is characterized by its emotional depth, its use of vivid imagery, and its universal appeal. Barks' translations aim to capture the essence of Rumi's poetry, conveying its beauty and wisdom to a contemporary audience. "The Essential Rumi" has become a beloved classic of spiritual literature and has introduced Rumi's poetry to a wider audience outside of the Islamic world.