Quatrain 19 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
بر چهرۀ گل نسیم نوروز خوش استدر صحن چمن روی دلافروز خوش است
از دی که گذشت هر چه گویی خوش نیستخوش باش و ز دی مگو که امروز خوش است
Description:
A Note on this Rubai
The rubai presented here is a beautiful ode to the spring season and the joy of living in the present moment. It's a classic example of Omar Khayyam's ability to find beauty in the simple things of life.
English Translation
A more literal translation
On the face of the rose, the breeze of Nowruz is pleasant,
In the courtyard of the meadow, a heart-stealing face is pleasant.
Whatever you say about the past day is not pleasant,
Be happy and don't speak of yesterday, because today is pleasant.
A more poetic and interpretive translation
The spring breeze kisses roses, sweet and fair,
A lovely face, a joy beyond compare.
The past holds sorrow, let it fade away,
Enjoy this moment, seize the joyful day.
A contemporary and informal translation
The spring is here, the flowers bloom so bright,
A beautiful day, a lovely sight.
Don't dwell on the past, it's gone, you see,
Just be happy now, and wild and free.
"بر چهرۀ گل نسیم نوروز خوش است": This line refers to the pleasant spring breeze that caresses the blooming roses.
"در صحن چمن روی دلافروز خوش است": This line speaks of the beauty of nature and the joy it brings.
"از دی که گذشت هر چه گویی خوش نیست": This line suggests that dwelling on the past is a futile exercise and brings no happiness.
"خوش باش و ز دی مگو که امروز خوش است": This line emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and enjoying the beauty of today.
Themes and Interpretations
The beauty of nature: The poem celebrates the beauty of spring and the natural world.
The importance of living in the present moment: The poet encourages the reader to focus on the present and let go of the past.
The joy of simple pleasures: The poem suggests that happiness can be found in the simple things in life, such as enjoying the beauty of nature.
This rubai is a timeless reminder to appreciate the beauty of the present moment. It encourages us to let go of regrets and worries, and to find joy in the simple pleasures of life.