Rubaei 22 By Hafez Shirazi
در سنبلش آویختم از روی نیازگفتم من سودازده را کار بساز
گفتا که لبم بگیر و زلفم بگذاردر عیش خوش آویز، نه در عمر دراز
Description:
English Translation:
Literal Translation:
I hung on her hyacinth locks out of need,
I said, "Please make something of this lovesick one."
She said, "Take my lip and leave my curl,"
"In a pleasant life, not in a long life."
Poetic and Interpretive Translation:
Desperate, I clung to her flowing hair,
Begging her to heed my fervent prayer.
She said, "Kiss my lips, but let my tresses be,
Seek joy in the moment, wild and free."
Analysis of the Rubai
This rubai by Hafez is a playful and sensual exploration of love, desire, and the fleeting nature of life.
The Hyacinth Locks: The image of the beloved's "hyacinth locks" is a common motif in Persian poetry, symbolizing beauty, youth, and desirability.
The Lovesick Lover: The poet presents himself as a "lovesick one," desperate for the beloved's attention.
The Beloved's Response: The beloved's response is intriguing. While he encourages the poet to seek pleasure, he also suggests that the poet should not be overly concerned with the length of their relationship.
Interpretation
This rubai can be interpreted in several ways:
A Love Poem: Most directly, it can be seen as a love poem expressing the poet's longing for the beloved.
A Carpe Diem Theme: The beloved's advice to "seek joy in the moment" aligns with the carpe diem philosophy, which encourages people to seize the day and enjoy life's pleasures.
A Spiritual Interpretation: The "hyacinth locks" could symbolize spiritual enlightenment, and the poet's desire for them could represent a spiritual quest.
Overall, this rubai is a celebration of love, desire, and the fleeting nature of life. Hafez uses vivid imagery and playful language to convey the intensity of romantic passion.