Rubaei 29 By Hafez Shirazi

Analysis

This rubai is a passionate expression of love and longing. Hafez, through hyperbolic language, conveys the intensity of his love and the pain of separation.

The Theme of Separation: The dominant theme here is the pain of separation from the beloved. The poet repeatedly emphasizes his death, which can be interpreted as a metaphor for the emotional death he experiences due to the absence of his beloved.
The Desire for Physical Intimacy: The references to kisses and the beloved's lips suggest a strong physical desire. However, it’s important to note that in classical Persian poetry, physical love often symbolizes a deeper spiritual connection.
The Imploration: The final line, "Come back, come back," is a desperate plea. It highlights the intensity of the poet's longing and his inability to endure the separation any longer.

Interpretation

A Classical Love Poem: This rubai fits into the classical tradition of Persian love poetry, where the beloved is often idealized and the love is expressed in highly emotional terms.
The Power of Love: Hafez uses hyperbolic language to emphasize the overwhelming power of love. The idea of dying for love is a common trope in romantic poetry, suggesting that love can be both life-giving and life-taking.
A Call for Reunion: Ultimately, the poem is a call for reunion. The poet is longing for the return of his beloved, suggesting that their presence is the only thing that can bring him back to life.

In essence, this rubai is a powerful and moving expression of love and longing. Hafez uses vivid imagery and emotional language to convey the intensity of his feelings.