Ghazal 1: O Saki! Poem by Hafiz of Shiraz

O Saki! Pass around and offer the cup, for
Love which seemed easy makes uneasy lore

Her locks emanated the scent of a musk skin
Lo, her black tresses wore many a heart thin

How can I feel secure in the beloved's home
As the bell tolls: Tie up the bundle of life and roam?

Dye with wine your prayer mat if the Master says
For, the Traveler is privy to the secrets of the Ways

Night dark, waves dreadful, whirlpools roar
Do they know our state the light-burdened on shore?

I followed my fancy; ill fame was all my lot
How can it be secret when off my chest it's cut?

Hafiz! If you seek the beloved's face, stay anear
Relinquish worldly ways to find her so dear


English Translation © Ali Salami
Tehran, Iran
salami2046@gmail.com