Quatrain 50 from Rubaiyat of Saadi Shirazi

Analysis:

This quatrain by Saadi Shirazi is a beautiful exploration of the complexities of love, particularly the tension between passion and patience. Let's break down the lines:

Line 1: مشنو که مرا از تو صبوری باشد

"Don't think I have patience with you,"
The speaker is directly addressing their beloved, asserting that they do not possess the patience that their love requires.

Line 2: یا طاقت دوستی و دوری باشد

"Or the endurance for both friendship and distance."
Here, the speaker emphasizes the difficulty of maintaining a relationship, especially when there is distance between the lovers.

Line 3: لیکن چه کنم گر نکنم صبر و شکیب؟

"But what can I do if I don't have patience and perseverance?"
Despite the challenges, the speaker recognizes the necessity of patience and perseverance in love.

Line 4: خرسندی عاشقان ضروری باشد

"The happiness of lovers is essential."
This final line suggests that the happiness of lovers is a universal desire and that patience is a necessary ingredient for achieving this happiness.

Deeper Meaning:

This quatrain suggests that:

Love is demanding: It requires patience, perseverance, and the ability to endure both closeness and distance.
Happiness is a goal: Lovers strive for happiness, and patience is a means to achieve it.
The speaker is conflicted: They desire immediate gratification but understand the importance of patience.

This quatrain is a reflection on the human condition and the complexities of love. It highlights the tension between passion and reason, and the importance of patience in achieving lasting love.