Quatrain 118 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam

Analysis of the Rubai

This quatrain by Omar Khayyam beautifully encapsulates the themes of carpe diem and the impermanence of life.

The Impermanence of Time: The first line emphasizes the fleeting nature of time and how it shames those who dwell on the past.
The Invitation to Enjoy Life: The poet encourages the reader to enjoy life's pleasures, specifically wine and music.
The Fragility of Life: The image of the crystal goblet being dashed against the stone symbolizes the fragility of human life and the inevitability of death.

Deeper Meanings and Interpretations

The Importance of the Present Moment: The poem underscores the importance of living in the present moment rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
The Beauty of Life: The poet invites the reader to appreciate the beauty of life and find joy in its simple pleasures.
The Inevitability of Change: The image of the goblet being shattered highlights the inevitability of change and the impermanence of all things.

In essence, this rubai is a celebration of life and a reminder to live each moment to its fullest.