Quatrain 102 from Rubaiyat of Saadi Shirazi
آن رفته که بود دل بدو مشغولموافکنده به شمشیر جفا مقتولم
بازآمد و آن رونق پارینش نیستخط خویشتن آورد که من معزولم
Description:
English Translation:
Literal:
"The one who was the object of my heart's preoccupation has gone,
and I, slain by the sword of injustice.
They have returned, but without their former radiance,
having brought upon themselves the inscription, 'I am deposed'."
Poetic:
"My heart once yearned for one, now lost to sight,
Slain by their cruelty, in endless night.
They've returned, yet their glow is dimmed and gone,
A self-inflicted wound, their reign is overthrown."
Analysis:
This quatrain by Saadi Shirazi paints a poignant picture of heartbreak and loss. Let's delve into the deeper meanings:
Betrayal and Heartbreak: The poet expresses deep sorrow over the loss of a loved one who has betrayed them. The "sword of injustice" symbolizes the pain caused by this betrayal.
Diminished Radiance: The return of the beloved is marked by a loss of their former allure. This suggests that the betrayal has tarnished their image in the poet's eyes.
Self-Inflicted Wound: The phrase "having brought upon themselves the inscription" suggests that the beloved has brought about their own downfall through their actions.
Sense of Power: The poet seems to have gained a sense of power or satisfaction from the beloved's downfall, even though they are still deeply hurt.
Themes:
Betrayal and heartbreak
Loss of love
Sense of power
Justice and karma
Deeper Meaning:
This quatrain explores complex emotions related to love, loss, and betrayal. The poet's sense of satisfaction at the beloved's downfall is a complex emotion that may arise from a desire for justice or a need to protect oneself from further hurt. The quatrain suggests that even in the midst of great pain, there can be a sense of empowerment.