Rubaei 42 By Hafez Shirazi
گر همچو من افتادهٔ این دام شویای بس که خراب باده و جام شوی
ما عاشق و رند و مست و عالَمسوزیمبا ما منشین اگر نه بدنام شوی
Description:
Literal Translation:
If you become like me, fallen into this trap,
You will be ruined by wine and cup so often.
We are lovers, rogues, intoxicated, and world-burning.
Don't sit with us if you don't want to be disreputable.
Poetic and Interpretive Translation:
Should you, like me, be ensnared by love's sweet chain,
You'll find yourself lost in wine's enchanting domain.
For we are lovers, wild and free, consumed by desire,
Don't join us if you fear a tarnished name.
Analysis
This rubai by Hafez is a cautionary tale about the consequences of indulging in love and worldly pleasures.
The Trap of Love: The "trap" refers to the intoxicating power of love, which can lead to a life of abandon.
The Life of a Lover: The poet describes the life of a lover as one filled with wine, revelry, and a disregard for societal norms.
The Warning: The final line is a direct warning to anyone considering joining the poet in his lifestyle.
Interpretation
The Risks of Passion: The rubai suggests that a life of passion and abandon comes with risks, including social ostracism.
The Allure of the Forbidden: The poet seems to revel in the rebellious nature of his lifestyle, and he is inviting others to join him in this rebellion.
The Complexity of Human Experience: The rubai hints at the complexity of human emotions and the tension between societal expectations and individual desires.
In essence, this rubai is a celebration of a life lived on the edge. It is a warning to those who seek a conventional existence, and an invitation to those who are drawn to the allure of the forbidden.