Quatrain 111 from Rubaiyat of Saadi Shirazi
چون میکشد آن طیرهٔ خورشید و مهممن نیز به ذل و حیف تن در ندهم
باری دو سه بوسه بر دهانش بدهموانگه بکشد چو میکشد بر گنهم
Description:
English Translation:
Literal:
"As that bird of the sun drags me away [to death],
I will not surrender my body to shame and disgrace.
At least, let me give her two or three kisses on her mouth,
and then let her drag me away as she will for my sin."
Poetic:
"As fate's dark bird draws me to its embrace,
I'll not yield to dishonor's cold embrace.
Grant me but kisses, sweet and pure and deep,
Then take my life, as destiny does keep."
Analysis:
This quatrain by Saadi Shirazi is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the inevitability of death. Let's break down its meaning:
The Inevitability of Death: The "bird of the sun" is a metaphor for death, and the poet acknowledges the inevitability of their demise.
The Desire for Love: Even in the face of death, the poet's primary concern is the fulfillment of their love. They desire a final, intimate moment with their beloved.
Sacrifice and Resignation: The poet is willing to face the consequences of their actions, even if it means death, as long as they can experience the joy of love.
The Beauty of Love: The focus on a few "kisses" highlights the intense and intimate nature of their love.
Themes:
Love and death: The quatrain explores the complex relationship between love and death.
Sacrifice: The poet is willing to sacrifice their life for love.
Inevitability: The poet acknowledges the inevitability of death.
Intimacy: The focus on kisses highlights the intimate nature of the love.