In many places throughout his writings Gibran refers to his studio in New York as “the hermitage.” In this letter he speaks of his meeting there with Nasseeb Arida and Abdul-Masseh.

TO MIKHAIL NAIMY

New York, 1920

My Dear Meesha:

Good morning to you, oh wondering soul between the intent of the earth and the claim of heaven. I heard your voice calling the people’s attention to “your goods” in the markets and squares. I heard you shouting softly, “We sell denims, we sell muslins,” and I loved the soothing tone of your voice, Meesha, and I know that the angels hear you and record your calls in the Eternal Book. I was happy to hear about your great success. However, I fear this success! I am afraid it is going to lead you into the heart of the business world. He who reaches that heart will find it very difficult to return to our world!

I shall meet with Nasseeb and Abdul-Masseh at the hermitage tonight and we shall discuss the Anthology. Wish you were with us.

I am in these days a man with a thousand and one things to do. I am like a sick bee in a garden of flowers. The nectar is ample and the sun is beautiful upon the flowers.

Pray for me and receive God’s blessing, and remain a dear brother to

GIBRAN