Quatrain 114 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam

Analysis of the Rubai

This quatrain offers a profound meditation on the passage of time and the impermanence of human power and glory.

Symbolism of the bird: The bird, often seen as a symbol of freedom and the soul, is here portrayed as a wise observer of the human condition.
The transience of power: The image of Kay Kavus's severed head, a symbol of his former power and glory, underscores the theme of the impermanence of human life.
The lament for the past: The bird's lament for the sounds of bells and drums is a symbolic expression of mourning for the past and the loss of a great civilization.

In essence, this rubai is a stark reminder that even the most powerful and influential figures are ultimately subject to the passage of time.

Deeper Meanings and Interpretations

The cycle of life and death: The image of the bird perched on the tomb connects to the cyclical nature of life and death.
The vanity of human ambition: The poem suggests that all human endeavors and achievements are ultimately meaningless in the face of time.
The search for meaning: The bird's lament can be seen as a search for meaning in a world where everything is transient.