Quatrain 27 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
چون لاله به نوروز قدح گیر به دستبا لالهرخی اگر تو را فرصت هست
می نوش به خرمی که این چرخ کهنناگاه تو را چو خاک گرداند پست
Description:
A Note on this Rubai
This rubai is a beautiful celebration of spring and a meditation on the fleeting nature of life. It uses the imagery of tulips and wine to convey a deep sense of longing and appreciation for life's beauty.
English Translation
A more literal translation
As the tulip holds a goblet in its hand in spring,
If you have the opportunity with a rosy-cheeked one,
Drink wine with joy, for this ancient wheel of fortune
Will suddenly cast you down like lowly dust.
A more poetic and interpretive translation
With spring's first bloom, the tulip holds its cup,
So seize the moment, let your spirits leap up.
With rosy friends, drink wine and be merry,
For time will pass, and you'll be buried so very.
A contemporary and informal translation
Spring is here, let's raise a glass and cheer,
With friends so fair, let's banish fear.
Enjoy life now, don't let it pass you by,
For time waits for no one, and you'll wonder why.
"چون لاله به نوروز قدح گیر به دست": This line creates a vivid image of a tulip holding a goblet, symbolizing the arrival of spring and the joy of life.
"با لالهرخی اگر تو را فرصت هست": This line invites the reader to enjoy the company of a beautiful companion.
"می نوش به خرمی که این چرخ کهن": This line encourages the reader to drink wine and be happy, as life is fleeting.
"ناگاه تو را چو خاک گرداند پست": This line is a reminder of mortality and the impermanence of human life.
Themes and Interpretations
The beauty of spring: The poem celebrates the arrival of spring and the renewal of life.
The importance of enjoying life: The poet encourages the reader to seize the moment and find joy in the simple things.
The fleeting nature of time: The poem reminds us of the impermanence of life and the importance of cherishing each moment.
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 company of loved ones and to savor the simple pleasures of life.