Thursday, September 18, 2008

Hafiz speaks

Extracts from the pen of Hafiz, the Persian:

You're neither before my eye, nor hidden from view
You don't remember me, but you won't leave my memory.


The face of the Beloved wears neither a veil nor covering
To glimpse it for yourself, just let the dust of the road settle.


The men of reason may be the pointer of the compass of Existence,
But Love knows that in our circle, they are apt to lose their bearings.


Before time was, a ray of your Beauty was breathed into existence
Love woke up; and set the universe alight.


Why, in the tavern of the fire-worshippers, am I held in such esteem?
For what is in my heart: a flame that cannot be extinguished.


Begging at the door of the wine tavern is a marvellous elixir
If you perform this work, you may turn dust into gold.


Do not find fault with the language of the People of the Heart
You, my friend, are no linguist: and the fault lies there.


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