Quatrain 135 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam

Analysis of the Rubai

This quatrain by Omar Khayyam expresses a deep sense of existential weariness and the futility of human endeavor.

The Burden of Existence: The first two lines convey a sense of being trapped and unable to find lasting happiness.
The Limitations of Knowledge: The third and fourth lines suggest that despite years of experience, the poet feels he has not truly mastered life.

Deeper Meanings and Interpretations

The Search for Meaning: The poem reflects the human search for meaning and purpose in a seemingly chaotic world.
The Limitations of Human Knowledge: Despite our efforts to understand the universe, we remain limited by our own perceptions.
The Transience of Life: The overall tone of the poem suggests a deep-seated melancholy and a recognition of the fleeting nature of human existence.

In essence, this rubai is a meditation on the human condition and the challenges of finding meaning in life.