Poem #292
English Translation
Persian
I swear by Shah Shuja's pomp, his glory and his might
I have no quarrel with the world for rank or wealth's delight.
قسم به حشمت و جاه و جلالِ شاه شجاع
که نیست با کَسَم از بهرِ مال و جاه نزاع
My homemade wine is not enough, bring Magian vintage rare!
My drinking friend has just arrived; O Repentance, now beware!
شرابِ خانگیم بس مِیِ مُغانِه بیار
حریفِ باده رسید ای رفیقِ توبه وِداع
For God's sake, wash my Sufi cloak with wine and make it clean,
For in this state no scent of good or virtue can be seen.
خدای را به مِی‌ام شست و شویِ خِرقه کنید
که من نمی‌شِنَوَم بویِ خیر از این اوضاع
Behold, he dances to the harp, in wild and ecstatic trance,
The one to whom you gave no leave to join the mystic dance.
ببین که رقص‌کُنان می‌رود به نالهٔ چنگ
کسی که رُخصه نفرمودی اِسْتِماعِ سَماع
Cast a glance upon your lovers, in thanks for your high state,
For I am but a servant here, and you the King of Fate.
به عاشقان نظری کن به شُکرِ این نعمت
که من غلامِ مطیعم، تو پادشاهِ مُطاع
We thirst for but a single sip from your enchanting cup
Yet dare not be too bold, nor stir a headache's trouble up.
به فیضِ جرعهٔ جامِ تو تشنه‌ایم، ولی
نمی‌کنیم دلیری نمی‌دهیم صُداع
May God never part Hafez's face, in sorrow or in mirth,
From the dust of Shah Shuja's court, the noblest place on earth.
جبین و چهرهٔ حافظ خدا جدا مَکُناد
ز خاکِ بارگه کبریایِ شاه شجاع
Cultural Context
US Interest Rank: 8/10. This poem contains historical references and profound statements. The reference to Shah Shuja adds historical depth. The verse about someone going 'dancing to the lamentation of the harp' even though permission was not given 'for the hearing of audition' is a striking image. The observation that Hafez is 'the obedient servant' and the king is 'the obeyed' is a powerful statement. The poem's combination of historical references and emotional expression makes it very engaging.