Walking around New York City is almost like strolling in a museum, or better yet, sitting through a history lecture. The city does not fall short in continuously honoring the fallen, from writers, politicians, artists, and activists, but more often than not, the commemorated tend to be of a certain race, or a certain class often reflecting an unjust past of rulings built on slavery and colonialism— and if you look close enough even some traces leading back to secret societies. Nonetheless, it is refreshing to see that the Big Apple will be commemorating Lebanese writer and philosopher Kahlil Gibran, with a new marble sculpture honoring one of his most profound works, The Prophet.
This year marks the 100th anniversary of Gibran’s literary masterpiece, offering its readers wisdom beyond years. The idea of the sculpture was brought to life by a non-profit organization called the Kahlil Gibran Collective, an online platform dedicated to upholding the late poet and writer’s legacy. The sculpture will be located in the garden of St. Mark’s Church near Gibran’s now-demolished apartment. The chosen location was reportedly where the author gave his first public reading of The Prophet in 1923.
The monument will be a symbolist drawing Gibran made titled, Hand of God for the cover of his famed book. It will also accommodate an accessible podium for live recitals. The structure will be brought to life by Lebanese artist Rudy Rahme.
The organizers are aiming to unveil the newly created monument on Sept. 12, 2023, the same date The Prophet was published a century ago.
Aside from Shakespeare and Lao Tzu, Gibran remains the third best-seller of all time due to the ongoing sales of The Prophet.
