Rubaei 22 By Hafez Shirazi
در سنبلش آویختم از روی نیاز
گفتم من سودازده را کار بساز
گفتا که لبم بگیر و زلفم بگذار
در 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."
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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.
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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.