I have to admit, epic poems aren't usually my go-to, but this one pulled me right in. Sir Edwin Arnold wrote this in the 1870s, and it's his retelling of the life of Buddha, from his sheltered princely life to his enlightenment.

The Story

We meet Prince Siddhartha, living in absolute luxury, shielded by his father from any glimpse of sickness, old age, or death. But curiosity wins. He sneaks out of the palace and sees the real world for the first time. The suffering he witnesses—a sick man, an old man, a dead body—shakes him to his core. He realizes his perfect life is a beautiful lie. So, he makes the ultimate sacrifice. He leaves his wife, his newborn son, and his crown behind in the middle of the night. The rest of the story follows his long, difficult search for truth, through extreme fasting and meditation, until he finds his answer under the Bodhi tree.

Why You Should Read It

Forget dry religious texts. Arnold writes with such vivid, emotional language that you feel Siddhartha's shock, his conflict, and his determination. The moment he decides to leave isn't portrayed as cold or heartless, but as a heartbreaking act of love for all humanity. It makes you think: what are we all shielding ourselves from? What would we give up to find real peace or understanding? It's a powerful look at compassion.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone curious about Buddhism but intimidated by scriptures, or for readers who love a classic, transformative hero's journey. If you enjoy beautiful language and stories about people making huge, life-altering choices for a greater good, this is a timeless and surprisingly accessible pick. Just be ready to look at your own life a little differently afterward.