120 qaṣīdat ḥubb: shiʻr

Many readers found this poetry collection to be deeply moving, praising its profound ability to evoke strong emotions such as love, longing, and exhilaration. The poet's command of language, rhythm, and rhyme is frequently highlighted as exceptional, with some reviewers bestowing high praise and acknowledging his masterful control over his craft. The book is also celebrated for revealing a tender and emotional side of the author, which many found to be a pleasant surprise compared to his more widely known works on other themes. Specific poems are lauded for their immense beauty, vivid imagination, unique vocabulary, and the poet's powerful artistry in captivating the reader's senses.

However, the collection is not without its criticisms, with several reviewers pointing out a significant inconsistency in quality across the poems. Some pieces are described as ordinary, disappointing, or even simplistic, failing to meet the high expectations set by the poet's reputation. Critics noted instances of repetitive language and a reliance on what some considered outdated or "harmful" rhyming schemes, particularly in later sections of the book, which felt less refined. Furthermore, the poet's attempts at prose poetry were viewed by some as less successful, suggesting he was venturing outside his usual strength.

In conclusion, this poetry collection offers a mixed experience, presenting moments of extraordinary beauty and profound emotional depth alongside passages that fall short of the poet's acclaimed standard. While it may not consistently maintain its brilliance throughout, the book's strongest poems are highly praised for their evocative power and linguistic artistry. It would particularly appeal to readers who appreciate classical Arabic poetry, those interested in exploring the romantic and sentimental facets of the author's work, and individuals willing to overlook some unevenness in exchange for truly captivating verses of love and longing.