Quatrain 18 from Rubaiyat of Rumi
ای چرخ فلک به مکر و بدسازیهااز نطع دلم ببردهای بازیها
روزی بینی مرا تو بر خوان فلکسازم چون ماه کاسهپردازیها
Description:
English Translation of the Quatrain
O Wheel of Fortune, with your tricks and malice,
You've stolen the game from my heart's chessboard.
One day you'll see me on the celestial table,
As a moon, crafting bowls of wonder.
Analysis of the Quatrain
The Wheel of Fortune: This is a common symbol in many cultures representing the ups and downs of life, fate, and destiny.
Stolen Game: The poet feels that Fate has cheated him, taking something precious from him. This "game" could be interpreted as love, happiness, or any other cherished aspect of life.
Celestial Table: This image suggests a cosmic stage or setting, implying a grand and divine scheme.
Moon Crafting Bowls: The moon is often a symbol of beauty and illumination in Persian poetry. Here, it is depicted as creating something beautiful or meaningful, perhaps suggesting that the poet will overcome their current challenges and create something worthwhile.
Deeper Meanings
This quatrain can be interpreted in several ways:
Defiance in the Face of Adversity: The poet seems to be defiant, challenging the Wheel of Fortune and expressing confidence in their eventual triumph.
Spiritual Journey: The image of the moon crafting bowls could suggest a spiritual transformation or enlightenment. The poet may be saying that despite the challenges they face, they will ultimately find meaning and purpose.
The Interplay of Fate and Free Will: This quatrain explores the tension between fate and free will. While the poet acknowledges the power of Fate, they also assert their own agency and ability to shape their destiny.