With my short hand, I’m beneath the burden, Ghazal 323 by Hafez
By
@hamed | poet: Hafez Shirazi
|
8
4
ز دستِ کوتهِ خود زیرِ بارم
که از بالابلندان شرمسارم
***
مگر زنجیرِ مویی گیردَم دست
وگر نه سر به شیدایی برآرم
***
ز چشمِ من بپرس اوضاعِ گردون
که شب تا روز اختر می‌شمارم
***
بدین شکرانه می‌بوسم لبِ جام
که کرد آگه ز رازِ روزگارم
***
اگر گفتم دعایِ مِی فروشان
چه باشد؟ حقِّ نعمت می‌گزارم
***
من از بازویِ خود دارم بسی شُکر
که زورِ مردم آزاری ندارم
***
سری دارم چو حافظ مست لیکن
به لطف آن سری امیدوارم
***
Description:
English Translation:
With my short hand, I’m beneath the burden
Ashamed of those who stand so tall.
Perhaps a lock of hair will catch my hand
Or else my head will rise in madness.
Ask my eye about the state of the heavens
For night and day, it counts the stars.
I kiss the lip of the cup in thanks for this
For it has made me aware of the secrets of time.
If I say the prayer of the wine sellers
What is wrong with that? I am paying homage to a blessing.
I have much to thank my own arm for
For I have no strength to harm others.
I have a head like the intoxicated Hafez, but
I hope for the grace of that head.
English Translation for Ghazal
متن غزل
Explanation of the Ghazal
This ghazal by Hafez is a deeply introspective piece that explores themes of humility, contentment, and the search for meaning. The poet reflects on his own limitations and expresses gratitude for the blessings he has received.
Key Themes:
Humility: The poet acknowledges his own limitations and shortcomings.
Contentment: The poet expresses satisfaction with his life and circumstances.
Gratitude: The poet expresses gratitude for the blessings he has received.
The search for meaning: The poet seeks to understand the mysteries of life and the universe.
Key Persian terms and nuances:
کوته: Short
شیدایی: Madness, frenzy
اختر: Star
Some of the nuances that are difficult to fully capture in translation include:
The intricate use of imagery: Hafez often uses multiple layers of symbolism and metaphor to convey his meaning.
The musicality of the Persian language: The sounds and rhythms of the Persian language contribute significantly to the emotional impact of the poem.
Sufi concepts: The poem is rich in Sufi symbolism and concepts, which can be challenging to convey in a different cultural context.