Quatrain 19 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
بر چهرۀ گل نسیم نوروز خوش است
در صحن چمن روی دلافروز خوش است
از دی که گذشت هر چه گویی خوش نیست
خوش 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.