Poem #115

Plant the tree of friendship, let it grow

And fruits of heart's desire it shall bestow. But root out enmity, that weed of pain, Lest suffering fall upon you like the rain.

When in the tavern, act with grace and care

Treat the libertines with honor there. For if you drink and cause a drunken brawl, The headache of the morning ruins all.

Treasure the night of friends and conversation

It is the jewel of our brief creation. For time will turn and many days will pass, And we are shadows in the looking glass.

O camel-driver, bearing Layla's train

Within whose cradle lies the moon's domain. For God's sake, guide her path to Majnun's side, Let love's sad wanderer in her shadow hide.

Seek the spring of life while you are here

Before the winter of the soul draws near. Or else the garden blooms, year after year, With rose and nightingale, but you're not there.

O God, since my poor heart has found its rest

Within the tangles of your tress's nest. Command your ruby lip to grant release, And bring my restless spirit final peace.

Hafez, in old age, seeks the garden's grace

To sit beside the stream in a quiet place. And pray that God may bring a cypress tree, To sit beside him and keep company.