Quatrain 66 from Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
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این قافلهٔ عمر عجب میگذرددریاب دمی که با طرب میگذرد
ساقی غم فردای حریفان چه خوریپیش آر پیاله را که شب میگذرد
Description:
A Note About This Quatrain
This particular rubai of Omar Khayyam is rich in philosophical and existential undertones, making a direct, literal translation quite challenging. The imagery of life as a caravan, the fleeting nature of time, and the act of drinking wine contribute to the poem's depth and complexity.
English Translation
A more literal translation
This caravan of life passes strangely,
Seize the moment that passes with joy.
O cupbearer, what will you drink to tomorrow's sorrows?
Bring forth the cup, for the night passes.
A more poetic and interpretive translation
Life's fleeting caravan, it speeds away,
Embrace the joy of this very day.
O wine-pourer, what's the use of future's fear?
Fill up the cup, for night is drawing near.
A contemporary and informal translation
Life's a journey, fast and wild,
Enjoy the moment, child.
Why worry 'bout tomorrow's strife?
Let's drink and celebrate life.
"این قافلهٔ عمر عجب میگذرد": This line compares life to a caravan that is swiftly moving forward.
"دریاب دمی که با طرب میگذرد": This line emphasizes the importance of seizing the moment and enjoying life.
"ساقی غم فردای حریفان چه خوری": This line questions the point of worrying about the future.
"پیش آر پیاله را که شب میگذرد": This line suggests that we should enjoy the present moment, as time is fleeting.
Themes and Interpretations
The transience of life: The poem emphasizes the fleeting nature of life and the importance of living in the present moment.
Carpe diem: The rubai encourages readers to seize the day and enjoy life to the fullest.
The role of wine in Persian poetry: Wine is often used as a symbol of joy, life, and the transient nature of existence.
This rubai is a profound meditation on the human condition. The imagery of the caravan and the act of drinking wine create a powerful visual representation of the fleeting nature of life and the importance of enjoying the present moment.