Ghazal 165

The love of dark-eyed ones will not leave my head —

this is heaven's decree, and it will not change.

The rival caused much torment and left no room for peace —

will not the sigh of the dawn-risers reach the sky?

On the Day of Eternity I was given no task but revelry —

whatever portion was allotted there will not increase.

For God's sake, O morals-officer, forgive us for the cry of drum and flute —

the law's order will not become lawless from this tale.

My scope is only this: to love her in secret —

embraces, kisses, and holding her — what can I say? It will not be.

Ruby wine, and a safe place, and a kind, beloved cupbearer —

O heart, when will your affairs improve, if not now?

O eye, do not wash the image of grief from the tablet of Hafez's breast,

for it is the wound of the beloved's sword, and the color of blood will not fade.