Rubaei 31 By Hafez Shirazi

Analysis

This rubai by Hafez is a deeply melancholic expression of loneliness and despair.

The Preponderance of Sorrow: The poet repeatedly emphasizes the theme of sorrow, suggesting a life dominated by negative emotions.
The Absence of Love and Companionship: The lack of a faithful companion and a beloved suggests a deep sense of isolation and loneliness.
The Futility of Life: The first line, "I have gained nothing from my life but sorrow," conveys a sense of the futility of existence.

Interpretation

A Cry for Help: This rubai can be seen as a cry for help, a plea for companionship and love. The poet's repeated emphasis on his sorrow suggests a deep-seated longing for something more.
The Dark Night of the Soul: In Sufi mysticism, the "dark night of the soul" is a period of spiritual desolation and doubt. This rubai could be seen as a poetic expression of such a state.
The Universal Theme of Suffering: The themes of sorrow, loneliness, and the meaninglessness of life are universal human experiences. Hafez's poetry resonates with readers because it captures these emotions in a profound and relatable way.

In essence, this rubai is a poignant expression of human suffering. Hafez, through his powerful imagery and emotional language, invites us to contemplate the depths of human despair and the longing for connection.