Quatrain 123 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam

Analysis of the Rubai

This quatrain by Omar Khayyam encapsulates the carpe diem theme, the idea of seizing the day. Here's a breakdown:

The Call to Action: The poet urges his companion to wake up and enjoy life's pleasures, specifically wine.
The Impending Doom: The second line hints at the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death.
The Unpredictability of Fate: The third and fourth lines underscore the capriciousness of fate, suggesting that life can change dramatically in an instant.

Deeper Meanings and Interpretations

The Fragility of Life: The poem emphasizes the fragility of human life and the importance of cherishing each moment.
The Inevitability of Death: The theme of death is a recurring one in Khayyam's poetry, and this rubai is no exception.
The Importance of Enjoying Life: Khayyam encourages his readers to find joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as drinking wine and enjoying companionship.

In essence, this rubai is a reminder to savor life's moments and not to take them for granted.