Right now I’m reading ‘The Feast of the Goat’, a novel which takes place in the Dominican Republic during the rule of the hated dictator Rafael Trujillo, who was called the goat. (Dominicans often made up nicknames for others.) Trujillo was assassinated in 1961.
The book is written by Peruvian Mario Vargas Llosa, who among many other literary prizes earned a Nobel Prize for literature. Llosa wrote extensively and was born in Peru in 1936.
On page #205 of my copy, I found the following quote:
‘AN OPEN BOOK IS A MIND THAT SPEAKS; CLOSED, A FRIEND WHO WAITS; FORGOTTEN, A SOUL THAT FORGIVES; DESTROYED, A HEART THAT WEEPS.’ By Rabindranath Tagore.
Tagore was a Bengali poet, writer, playwright, composer, philosopher, social reformer and painter, and more. Obviously a brilliant guy. He lived from 1861-1941 when he died in Calcutta.
I love the quote…
View from Over the Hill 
Love that quote. Thanks for sharing.
So glad you share my opinion. Makes me happy. Thanks, Muriel
Tagore is an example of being the finest Indian. He was a visionary educator, who thought music and games are as important as science.
We are rapidly losing people like him in today’s world. By the way, did you know that Tagore was a knight? But he renounced the title when the British massacred thousands of people in India.
I’m so pleased he means so much to your country and to you. Obviously, he was a very special man and I enjoyed learning about him. Thanks for your input. All the best, fondly, Muriel
You made me realize that I need to get back into reading books. I read a fair number this year, but none in the last six or more weeks. Hi, Muriel. See ya!
I have two addictions Neil, coffee and reading. Happy reading to you! Fondly, Muriel
Do look up Tagore’s short stories ; The Kabuliwallah is very famous, but there are many others. Most are heart-rending, but a must read.
I’ll try to find some Jaya: Just reading about HIM was astounding. What a special man he was. Love, Muriel
Such a profound quote! Thanks for this!
Glad you like it. I knew you would. Keep exploring the world AND books. Cheers, Muriel
The book must be interesting. I love Tagore’s quotes. Have 6ou read his Geetanjali?
I admit that prior to reading this book, I had not heard of Tagore, who was such a genius,but another reader in India was kind enough to send me about 30 pages about him. I loved reading it and hope to read more about him. Thank you for your thoughts. Cheers, Muriel
Muriel, I’ve so enjoyed your posts, especially those about your family … but all are delightful reading and are greatly anticipated. Please know that they’re very much appreciated. Love, Lynne
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How kind of you to say so Lynne: Yes, I have written a lot about my family, maybe because it was so difficult and confusing to finally get to see them during this pandemic. I’m laying low right now, waiting to be able to get another vaccine. I imagine you are too. I miss you so very much. Love, Muriel
The book sounds interesting, I look forward to checking it out!
That quote is rather deep and so true. Tagore was a brilliant writer and artist among other things – quite the visionary.
As a history buff, it was the perfect book to fall into my hands. A novel particularly well-written and based in a particular time with that fabulous quote from Tagore, whom I had never known of before. One thing leads to another….Hope you like the book as much as I did. Cheers, Muriel
Hi Muriel; What a lovely poem Raffi wrote.! The only thing I find heartening about the
mudslides and road closures is that people are sharing their food and blankets with those
who do not have any. I feel for everyone in this situation; particularly parents with children
who must be scared silly!
Yes Nancy: I, too, am heartened by the kindness of strangers. And, yes, Rafi is really talented and writes well. Thank you so much for reading. Fondly, Muriel