Quatrain 9 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
اکنون که گل سعادتت پر بار استدست تو زجام می چرا بیکار است
می خور که زمانه دشمنی غدار استدریافتن روز چنین دشوار است
Description:
A Note on this Rubai
The rubai presented here is another beautiful example of Omar Khayyam's work. It's often interpreted as an invitation to seize the moment and enjoy life's pleasures while we still can.
English Translation
A more literal translation
Now that the flower of your fortune is in full bloom,
Why is your hand idle from the wine cup?
Drink, for time is a treacherous enemy,
To find a day like this is difficult.
A more poetic and interpretive translation
Your luck is blooming, a garden so sweet,
Why let your cup remain so incomplete?
Time is a thief, it steals our days away,
So seize this moment, and carpe the day.
A contemporary and informal translation
Your life's in full bloom, it's a beautiful thing,
So why not raise a glass, and let's sing?
Time flies, don't let it slip through your hands,
Enjoy this moment, make the most of your plans.
"اکنون که گل سعادتت پر بار است": This line suggests that the speaker is currently in a fortunate or prosperous period of their life.
"دست تو زجام می چرا بیکار است": This line directly translates to "why is your hand idle from the wine cup?" but it also implies a missed opportunity for enjoyment.
"می خور که زمانه دشمنی غدار است": Here, time is personified as a treacherous enemy that steals away our opportunities.
"دریافتن روز چنین دشوار است": This line emphasizes the rarity and preciousness of happy moments.
Themes and Interpretations
Carpe Diem: The poem is a classic example of the carpe diem theme, encouraging readers to seize the day and enjoy life's pleasures.
The transience of time: The idea that time is fleeting and that opportunities may not come again is a central theme.
The importance of enjoying life: The poet suggests that life is short and that we should make the most of it.
This rubai is a celebration of life and an invitation to embrace the present moment.