Quatrain 53 from Rubaiyat of Saadi Shirazi

Analysis:

This quatrain by Saadi Shirazi is a subtle critique of hypocrisy and the misuse of power. Let’s break down the lines:

Line 1: روزی نظرش بر من درویش آمد

"One day, his gaze fell upon me, the poor one,"
The speaker is describing a moment when someone of authority or influence noticed them.

Line 2: دیدم که معلم بداندیش آمد

"I saw that a malicious teacher had arrived."
The person who noticed the speaker is described as a "bad-intentioned teacher". This suggests someone who is supposed to be a guide or mentor but is actually harmful.

Line 3: نگذاشت که آفتاب بر من تابد

"He didn't let the sunlight reach me,"
The "sunlight" here is a metaphor for opportunity, growth, or happiness. The teacher, by their actions, is preventing the speaker from these positive things.

Line 4: آن سایه گران چو ابر در پیش آمد

"That heavy shadow, like a cloud, came before me."
The teacher's presence is compared to a dark cloud, blocking out the light and creating a sense of gloom.

Deeper Meaning:

This quatrain suggests that:

Power can be misused: Those in positions of authority can use their power to harm others.
Hypocrisy is common: People who are supposed to be helpful or kind can be malicious.
Oppression can take many forms: Even something as simple as a glance or a shadow can be oppressive.

This quatrain is a commentary on the human condition, highlighting the potential for cruelty and injustice, even in seemingly benign situations. The image of the teacher casting a shadow over the speaker is a powerful metaphor for the way in which powerful individuals can limit the opportunities and happiness of others.