Quatrain 93 from Rubaiyat of Saadi Shirazi

By hamed @hamed | 8 5

گر دست دهد دولت ایام وصالور سر برود در سر سودای محال


یک بوسه برین نیمه خالی دهمشاز رویش و یک بوسه بران نیمهٔ خال


Description:

English Translation:

Literal:

"If fortune grants the days of union
and if my head is lost in the pursuit of an impossible desire,

I would give one kiss to this half-empty cup from its top
and one kiss to that half-mole from its side."

Poetic:

"Should fate bestow the bliss of your embrace,
Though I may lose my head in love's embrace,

One kiss I'll plant upon your empty cup,
And one upon your mole, from top to up."


hamed
@hamed Oct. 3, 2024, 2:51 p.m.

Analysis:

This quatrain by Saadi Shirazi is a beautiful and evocative expression of romantic longing. It's filled with imagery and symbolism that speaks to the depth of the poet's love.

hamed
@hamed Oct. 3, 2024, 2:51 p.m.

Imagery of the cup: The "half-empty cup" is likely a metaphor for the beloved's heart. The poet is suggesting that they would be content with even a small part of the beloved's affection.
The mole: The mole is a common motif in Persian poetry, often used to represent a beauty mark. Here, it symbolizes the beloved's unique and captivating qualities.
The idea of sacrifice: The poet is willing to sacrifice their life (represented by the "head") in pursuit of their love. This highlights the intensity of their feelings.

hamed
@hamed Oct. 3, 2024, 2:51 p.m.

Deeper Meaning

This quatrain explores themes of love, longing, and sacrifice. The poet is expressing a deep desire for union with their beloved and is willing to go to great lengths to achieve this. The imagery of the cup and the mole suggests a longing for a deeper connection and a desire to possess every aspect of the beloved.

hamed
@hamed Oct. 3, 2024, 2:52 p.m.

Key Themes:

Romantic longing: The poet's intense desire for their beloved is evident throughout the quatrain.
Sacrifice: The poet is willing to sacrifice their life for their love.
Symbolism: The cup and the mole are used as powerful symbols to represent the beloved and the poet's desire.

hamed
@hamed Oct. 3, 2024, 2:52 p.m.

Overall

This quatrain is a testament to the power of love and the lengths to which people will go for those they love. The poet's vivid imagery and heartfelt expression create a lasting impression.