[1][2][3][4] In a review for AllMusic, Michael G. Nastos wrote: "One has to always wonder if Maupin has a magnum opus within him, and this comes close, for it is certainly his most introspective, reflective, and inner spirit-directed effort in a long and varied career playing progressive jazz.

"[1] John Kelman of All About Jazz stated: "Penumbra and the equally outstanding Early Reflections book-end The Jewel in the Lotus—a promise Maupin never managed to follow up—demonstrating two very different sides and making it clear that he's truly back and better than ever.

"[6] Writing for The New York Times, Ben Ratliff commented: "This is patient, well-planned music, and Mr. Maupin's sound on bass clarinet, as well as tenor and soprano saxophone and flute, is provocatively honest and strong and almost plain, with spaces in between phrases; he's never playing too much.

"[7] In an article for Jazz Times, Steve Greenlee remarked: "Patient and emotive, it is destined to be one of the great releases of 2008...

"[10] Writing for Something Else!, S. Victor Aaron commented: "Bennie Maupin's return to being regular recording artist as a leader hasn't been heralded nearly as much as it should be.