Quatrain 25 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
چون بلبل مست راه در بستان یافتروی گل و جام باده را خندان یافت
آمد به زبان حال در گوشم گفتدریاب که عمر رفته را نتوان یافت
Description:
A Note on this Rubai
This rubai is a beautiful celebration of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of enjoying the present moment. It uses the imagery of a nightingale and a rose garden to convey a deep sense of longing and appreciation for life's beauty.
English Translation
A more literal translation
As the intoxicated nightingale found its way in the garden,
It found the face of the rose and the cup of wine smiling.
It came and said to my heart, "Listen to me,"
"Seize the day, for you cannot find the time that has passed.
A more poetic and interpretive translation
The nightingale, drunk on love's sweet song,
Found roses blooming, where it belonged.
It whispered to my heart, "Don't let time slip away,"
For moments lost, are lost forever and a day.
A contemporary and informal translation
The bird was singing, happy and free,
Surrounded by flowers, beautiful to see.
It told me, "Don't waste a moment, my friend,"
Time flies by, and there's no way to send it back again."
"چون بلبل مست راه در بستان یافت": This line describes the nightingale, intoxicated by the beauty of the garden.
"روی گل و جام باده را خندان یافت": This line refers to the joyful sight of the rose and the promise of wine.
"آمد به زبان حال در گوشم گفت": This line suggests that the nightingale is speaking directly to the poet's heart.
"دریاب که عمر رفته را نتوان یافت": This line is a reminder of the fleeting nature of time.
Themes and Interpretations
The beauty of nature: The poem celebrates the beauty of the natural world.
The importance of living in the present moment: The poet encourages the reader to seize the day and enjoy life.
The fleeting nature of time: The poem highlights the irreversibility of time.
This rubai is a beautiful reminder to appreciate the beauty of life and to live each moment to the fullest. It encourages us to find joy in the simple things and to cherish our time on Earth.