Poem #326

In pleasure's secret chamber dwells my lovely idol fair

for whose tresses and bright face I keep the horseshoe in fire's flare.

Lover, libertine, and wine-drinker—I proclaim it without shame

all these titles I received from that fairy-faced enchanting Dame.

If you leave me disordered, wild, and unrestrained

I'll dishevel your tresses with my dawn sighs, love's pain sustained.

If my Friend's dark down adorns such a radiant face divine

my pale cheeks are decorated with tears of blood, a crimson sign.

If you wish to step into the libertines' domain

I have sweet poetry as refreshment and wine without stain.

Bring the arrow of your glances and the lasso of your hair

I've many wars to wage with this wounded heart of care.

O Hafez, since the world's sorrows and joys are passing by

it's better that I keep my own heart's spirit light and high.