To me, an epic which surpasses most. Although not with the popularity of Shakespeare, he speaks with the grandeur of Dante and Milton, who then writes much more powerful English than the latter.

To me the greatest literary icon, his work: The Divine Commedy, a journey through hell, puragatory, and heaven/paradise. Much of it is beautiful if not the most. Vita Nuova great as well.

A great translation of the Holy book of Islam. Although a Christian, I see this book a worthy revelation. Nonetheless, it appeals to me as a millitant version of The Bible.

Thus far the most compelling of all Christian mystics, St. John of the Cross defines his view of the "Dark Night of the Soul" in a theory that ought to be practiced.

Universal wisdom by the Hindu rishis. Although the West deals mainly in the macrocosm, this eastern book reveals the microcosm. Translation and commentary adequate.

Great companion with Paradise Regained. Milton's style is an eloquent one. A must for Epic collectors.

Awesome book on the topic. Enough said.

Great Epic of Rome. Nice translation.

Wonderful book. Was the main catalyst for Western interest of Hinduism.

Other than Aurobindo, this philosopher has impacted my thought more profoundly than Kant, Hegel, Heidegger and Plato put together. Other than "Sentient Intelligence," this is the book.

Great collection of contemplative and reflective exercises.

Possibly the greatest scientist of the modern era, Stephen Hawking offers a universal approach to high level physics in layman's terms.