Quatrain 58 from Rubaiyat of Saadi Shirazi

Analysis:

This quatrain by Saadi Shirazi explores the themes of love, desire, and societal pressures. Let's break down the lines:

Line 1: گویند مرو در پی آن سرو بلند

"They say, 'Don't pursue that tall cypress,'"
The speaker is recounting advice they have received, warning them against pursuing a particular person, often used as a metaphor for a beautiful or unattainable love interest.

Line 2: انگشت‌نمای خلق بودن تا چند؟

"How long can one be the object of people's pointing fingers?"
This line highlights the social stigma or disapproval associated with pursuing such a love. The implication is that the object of their affection is perhaps already committed or socially unattainable.

Line 3: بی‌فایده پندم مده ای دانشمند

"Don't give me useless advice, oh wise one,"
The speaker dismisses the advice, suggesting that they are unable or unwilling to heed it.

Line 4: من چون نروم؟ که می‌برندم به کمند

"How can I not go? For it drags me away with a noose."
Here, the speaker emphasizes the irresistible power of their love, likening it to a noose that pulls them along, despite the consequences.

Deeper Meaning:

This quatrain suggests that:

Love can be irrational: The speaker acknowledges the potential negative consequences of pursuing this love but is unable to resist it.
Social pressures can be difficult to overcome: The speaker is aware of societal expectations and disapproval but chooses to ignore them.
The power of desire: The image of the noose emphasizes the overwhelming nature of the speaker's desire.

This quatrain is a powerful expression of the conflict between reason and passion. It suggests that sometimes, love can be so compelling that it overrides all other considerations.