Quatrain 58 from Rubaiyat of Saadi Shirazi
گویند مرو در پی آن سرو بلند
انگشتنمای خلق بودن تا چند؟
بیفایده پندم مده ای دانشمند
من چون نروم؟ که میبرندم به کمند
Description:
English Translation:
They say, "Don't pursue that tall cypress,"
How long can one be the object of people's pointing fingers?
Don't give me useless advice, oh wise one,
How can I not go? For it drags me away with a noose.
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Analysis:
This quatrain by Saadi Shirazi explores the themes of love, desire, and societal pressures. Let's break down the lines:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.