Poem #485

O Cupbearer! The clouds cast shade, 'tis spring, the river flows

I need not speak; if you have heart, you know what I propose.

No scent of unity rises from this painted, patterned show

Arise and wash the Sufi's cloak with wine's pure, ruby glow.

The world is base; rely not on its grace or fickle state

O wise one, seek no constancy from what is born of hate.

Two words of counsel hear from me, and treasures you shall win

"Enter the door of innocent joy, but shun the path of sin."

Give thanks that you have seen the spring return to bloom anew

Plant seeds of goodness in the earth, and seek the true and true.

If you would see the Beloved's face, polish the mirror bright

For rust and iron cannot reflect the garden's floral light.

Open your ear! The nightingale cries out in song and grief

"O Master, find no fault today, but smell the rose's leaf."

You said, "From our Hafez there comes the scent of false pretense."

Blessings upon your breath, my friend! You have a keen, sharp sense.