Quatrain 100 from Rubaiyat of Saadi Shirazi
گر بر رگ جان ز شستت آید تیرمچه خوشتر ازان که پیش دستت میرم
دل با تو خصومت آرزو میکندمتا صلح کنیم و در کنارت گیرم
Description:
English Translation:
Literal:
"If an arrow from your finger were to pierce my heart's vein,
it would be better than coming before you.
My heart desires enmity with you
so that we can make peace and I can be by your side."
Poetic:
"If from your finger, love's sharp arrow flies,
And pierces deep my heart, where passion lies,
I'd welcome death, to be so near to thee,
For enmity to love, my heart does plea."
Analysis:
This quatrain by Saadi Shirazi is a complex expression of love, longing, and a desire for connection, even in the face of adversity. Let's break down the deeper meanings:
Masochistic Love: The poet expresses a strange desire to be wounded by their beloved. This masochistic tendency suggests a deep-seated longing and a willingness to endure pain for the sake of love.
Desire for Connection: Despite the masochistic undertones, the underlying desire is to be closer to the beloved. The poet would rather be near them, even if it means suffering.
Paradox of Love: The quatrain presents a paradox: the poet desires enmity with the beloved, yet the ultimate goal is to make peace and be together. This suggests a complex interplay of emotions and desires.
Themes:
Unconditional Love: The poet's love is unconditional and willing to endure any pain.
Masochism: The poet's desire to be wounded is a form of masochistic love.
Paradox of Desire: The poet's desires are contradictory and complex.
Deeper Meaning:
This quatrain delves into the psychological complexities of love. The poet's willingness to endure pain for the sake of love highlights the irrationality and intensity of romantic passion. The paradox of desiring both enmity and unity suggests a deep-seated conflict within the poet's heart.
This quatrain is a powerful exploration of the complexities of human emotion. It highlights the irrational and sometimes self-destructive nature of love. The poet's willingness to endure pain for the sake of being near their beloved is a testament to the enduring power of romantic love.