Quatrain 120 from Rubaiyat of Saadi Shirazi
ای دوست گرفته بر سر ما دشمنیا دوست گزین به دوستی یا دشمن
نادیدن دوست گرچه مشکل دردیستآسانتر ازان که بینمش با دشمن
Description:
English Translation:
Literal:
"O friend, you have brought an enemy upon us.
Choose either friend or enemy as friend.
Not seeing a friend, though a difficult pain,
is easier than seeing her with an enemy."
Poetic:
"A foe you've placed, dear friend, between us two,
Choose friendship true, or enmity pursue.
To miss a friend, a painful thing, 'tis true,
Yet easier borne than seeing him with you."
Analysis:
This quatrain by Saadi Shirazi delves into the complexities of friendship and betrayal. Let’s break it down:
Betrayal: The speaker is expressing deep hurt and disappointment, accusing their friend of bringing an enemy into their life.
A Difficult Choice: The speaker presents a stark choice to the friend: either renew the friendship or fully embrace enmity.
The Pain of Absence: The speaker acknowledges that the absence of a friend is painful, but they suggest that it is preferable to seeing the friend in the company of their enemy. This implies a fear of further hurt or betrayal.
The Fear of Losing a Friend: The underlying theme is the fear of losing a friend. The speaker is willing to endure the pain of separation rather than risk the deeper pain of seeing their friend allied with their enemy.
Themes:
Betrayal: The central theme is the pain and betrayal experienced in friendship.
Choice: The speaker presents a clear choice between friendship and enmity.
Pain of Absence: The speaker acknowledges the pain of separation but prefers it to betrayal.
Fear of Loss: The underlying emotion is the fear of losing a friend.
Deeper Meaning:
This quatrain speaks to the universal experience of feeling betrayed by a friend. It explores the complexities of human relationships and the difficult choices we often face. The speaker's dilemma highlights the delicate balance between loyalty, trust, and the pain of betrayal.