Rubaei 30 By Hafez Shirazi

Analysis

This rubai by Hafez is a poignant expression of disappointment, frustration, and the feeling of being betrayed.

The Theme of Unfulfilled Desire: The poet laments a lifetime spent in pursuit of a desire that remains unfulfilled. The "celestial sphere" is often used in Persian poetry to represent fate or destiny.
Betrayal: The poet's confession of love has led to enmity, suggesting a world where sincerity is met with betrayal. This is a common theme in Hafez's poetry, reflecting the complexities of human relationships.
The Question of Fate: The final line expresses a sense of resignation and despair. The poet questions his fate, wondering why he is so consistently met with misfortune.

Interpretation

A Universal Theme: The themes of unfulfilled desire and betrayal are universal human experiences. Hafez's poetry resonates with readers because it captures these emotions in a profound and relatable way.
The Ironies of Life: The rubai highlights the ironies of life. The poet's honesty and vulnerability have led to his downfall. This suggests that sometimes, even sincerity can lead to negative consequences.
A Search for Meaning: Despite the pessimism, there is also a sense of searching for meaning. The poet's questioning of fate suggests a deep desire for understanding and a longing for a better life.

In essence, this rubai is a powerful meditation on the complexities of human existence. Hafez uses vivid imagery and emotional language to convey the pain of disappointment and the sense of being betrayed.