Quatrain 157 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam

Analysis of the Rubai

This quatrain by Omar Khayyam offers a wise perspective on life and its priorities.

Basic Needs: The first two lines acknowledge the necessity of fulfilling basic human needs like food and clothing.
The Worthlessness of Material Possessions: The poet suggests that material possessions beyond basic needs are not worth the effort or the sacrifice of one's precious life.
The Value of Life: The final line emphasizes the immense value of human life and warns against squandering it for trivial pursuits.

Deeper Meanings and Interpretations

A Critique of Materialism: The poem can be seen as a critique of materialism and a celebration of spiritual fulfillment.
The Importance of Life: The poet emphasizes the importance of life and the need to live it fully.
The Futility of Worldly Pursuits: The poem suggests that worldly pursuits are ultimately futile and do not bring lasting happiness.

In essence, this rubai is a call to prioritize the quality of life over material possessions.