Review - Current Of Being Volume I -

Review – Current Of Being Volume I

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Exploring Reviews and Reactions

It was amazing If you’re looking for a memoir that’s equal parts heart and history, “Currents of Being: Volume I: The River of Life” by Shahin Samadi is the book you need to grab. Shahin takes us on a nostalgic journey through his early years in Iran, sharing stories that are as intimate as they are eye-opening. From his family dynamics to his childhood adventures, and the big move to the U.S., this book gives you a front-row seat to the experiences that shaped him.

What makes this book special is how Shahin invites you into his world. His reflections on his roots and the cultural shifts he’s gone through are not only relatable but also deeply moving. You’ll find yourself immersed in his life, feeling the impact of his rich heritage and the resilience that helped him navigate life’s twists and turns.

But it’s not just about personal stories—this book also gives you a glimpse into Iran’s complex history and the revolution that rocked the world. If you’re curious about Iran and want to understand more about its past and its global impact, this is the perfect read. Shahin weaves his personal journey with the broader cultural and political landscape, making it a compelling and educational experience.

The best part? Shahin’s writing is down-to-earth and engaging. He balances his personal story with insights that are both thought-provoking and informative. Whether you’re into memoirs or just love a good cultural deep dive, this book hits all the right notes.

In a nutshell, “Currents of Being: Volume I: The River of Life” is a must-read for anyone who loves stories about roots, resilience, and the powerful ties that connect us to our heritage. Trust me, you won’t be able to put it down.

CURRENTS OF BEING: VOLUME I : The River of Life
by SHAHIN SAMADI

Sneha’s Review Sep 04, 2024

Currents of Being is a thoughtful memoir that reflects on personal experiences, cultural heritage, and philosophical thoughts. The book is divided into two volumes, The River of Life and Eternal Wisdom, which not only focuses on author’s personal story but also reflects a meditation on universal human experiences. The author has used poetic language and cultural references, which allows readers to understand identity, purpose and the pursuit of wisdom.

In my opinion, this book is the mixture of autobiography and Persian culture and literature. The author has used his life story to share insights on personal growth and cultural legacy.

The core idea of Currents of Being suggests that life is like a river, which is a continuous flow, shaped by our experiences, relationships, and the wisdom that we gather. Samadi has mentioned that to live a meaningful life, we must understand and accept this flow.

The book introduction focuses on a childhood memory of a peaceful picnic by a river in Iran. This image of the river becomes a central metaphor for life’s ongoing current.

Volume I, The River of Life, focuses on Samadi’s experience, from his early years in Iran to his experiences as an immigrant in the United States. This section not only chronicles his personal growth but also pays homage to his cultural roots, filled with vivid descriptions of his family and upbringing in Iran. The memoir paints a rich picture of Iran’s cultural and historical landscape, making it accessible to readers beyond Samadi’s personal experiences.

On the contrary, Volume II, Eternal Wisdom, focuses more on philosophical thoughts than a memoir. In this section, Samadi has mentioned the nature of wisdom and he has done that through his own experiences and several Persian poets like Rumi, Saadi, and Omar Khayyam. Volume II allows readers to reflect on their own lives and the wisdom they seek

Although the writing is beautiful in this book, it can sometimes feel a bit difficult for readers with no philosophical background.

Overall, Currents of Being is a beautifully written memoir that focuses on both personal journey and philosophical enlightenment. Samadi’s ability to merge his personal experiences with cultural and philosophical touch makes this book a valuable addition to memoir genre.

I highly recommend Currents of Being for readers who really enjoy such philosophical memoirs, and those with an interest in Persian culture and literature.

Best Regards,

Judy G. Plant

"Reading 'Currents of Being' was a transformative experience. Shahin Samadi's remarkable resilience and ability to overcome challenges are deeply motivating. His strength is a powerful reminder of what we can all achieve."

"'Currents of Being' is a profoundly moving book. The life story of Shahin Samadi, filled with inspiring wisdom and heartfelt moments, captures the essence of a life well-lived and lessons well-learned.

"'Currents of Being' offered me a fresh perspective on personal growth. Learning from Shahin's experiences has encouraged me to fully embrace my own journey with a renewed sense of purpose and understanding."

"Shahin Samadi’s book is a treasure trove of cultural richness and personal insights. It’s an enlightening read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of life’s complexities and beauties."

"'Currents of Being' fundamentally altered how I view life and family. Inspired by Shahin's journey, I’ve come to deeply appreciate my own roots and the heritage that shapes me. This book is a compelling invitation to celebrate and reflect on our own life stories."

In 'The River of Life,' Shahin Samadi offers a captivating exploration of Persian civilization, enriching my understanding of Iran's profound historical and cultural contributions. His narrative is both educational and inspiring, revealing the significant impact of this ancient culture on the broader world."

"Shahin's descriptions of his sensory journey through Iran, as presented in 'The River of Life,' are vivid and enthralling. Each story paints a detailed picture of Iran's rich landscapes, flavors, and sounds, immersing readers in the essence of its diverse environments and vibrant culture."

"'The River of Life' includes a poignant look at the Iranian Revolution and the intricate social dynamics that followed. Shahin’s personal insights into this tumultuous period add depth and realism, providing a nuanced understanding of the events that have shaped contemporary Iran."

"Through 'The River of Life,' Shahin Samadi masterfully intertwines Iran’s historical and modern societal changes, offering a comprehensive view of the nation's enduring resilience and cultural evolution. His narratives resonate deeply, illustrating the ongoing transformation of his homeland."

"The section on the Iranian Revolution in 'The River of Life' is compelling and informative. Shahin’s firsthand experiences during this critical period in Iranian history are profoundly insightful, offering readers a unique perspective on the social upheavals that continue to influence Iran today."

"‘Eternal Wisdom’ in 'Currents of Being' is a compelling exploration of the interconnectedness of life. Shahin Samadi's reflections on religion, technology, and climate change provide a profound perspective that challenges us to think deeply about our roles within these global conversations."

"In 'Eternal Wisdom,' Shahin Samadi offers a profound exploration of the challenges immigrants face when integrating into a new culture and the responsibilities of host countries to facilitate this process. Reading this section deeply resonated with me, highlighting the necessity for immigrants to embrace their new environment while also emphasizing the need for host communities to understand and support these new members. Shahin's personal stories of adapting to a new life in the United States provided both inspiration and practical insights into the complexities of cultural assimilation. This part of the book enriched my understanding of the mutual efforts required to build a welcoming and inclusive society. It's a vital read for anyone interested in the dynamics of immigration and cultural integration."

"The discussion of human relationships in 'Eternal Wisdom' really resonated with me. Shahin delves into the complexities of maintaining connections across cultural and geographic divides, offering insights that are both enlightening and deeply moving. His personal stories of friendship and family interactions across continents are a testament to the enduring power of human bonds."

"Shahin's masterful integration of history, science, and science fiction into his philosophical discussions in 'Eternal Wisdom' is truly enlightening. His approach illuminates the cyclical nature of history, demonstrating how past events often set the stage for future occurrences. Additionally, Shahin's exploration of science fiction as a medium offers a visionary glimpse into potential futures, empowering us to envision and shape the world we aspire to."

"This book section touched me deeply with its insightful look into how our lives are shaped by the broader forces of society and nature. Shahin’s personal stories tied to each theme, from technology to climate, make the global feel personal and actionable."

"Reading 'Eternal Wisdom' has expanded my understanding of the delicate balance between progressing in science and maintaining ethical standards. Shahin Samadi’s narratives are a powerful reminder of our responsibilities as stewards of both knowledge and nature."

"'Eternal Wisdom' offers a refreshing perspective on the modern challenges and triumphs of humanity. Shahin’s discussions on topics like historical influences and scientific advancements provide a blueprint for understanding our past and shaping a happier future."

"Shahin Samadi masterfully addresses complex themes like religion and technology, urging us to reflect on how these forces shape our identities and beliefs. His insights are not just academic; they are deeply personal, making 'Eternal Wisdom' a uniquely relatable and profound read."

"Reading 'The River of Life,' I was deeply moved by Shahin Samadi's personal reflections on climate change. He connects the environmental shifts in global changes, making the vast issue of climate deeply personal. This section not only raised my awareness but also inspired me to think about the interconnectedness of our actions and the environment."

"In 'The River of Life,' Shahin examines the impact of technological advancements on society with a critical eye. His discussions made me reflect on how technology shapes our daily interactions and the essence of community. Shahin’s insights helped me appreciate the need to balance technological use with maintaining meaningful human connections."

"Shahin Samadi’s exploration of happiness through sensory experiences in 'The River of Life' is enlightening. He vividly describes how the senses tie us to our memories and surroundings, enriching our pursuit of joy. This segment reminded me to savor the simple sensory pleasures of life, reinforcing how deeply they are linked to our well-being and happiness."

Shahin Samadi