Ghazal 288

The bank of the water, the foot of the willow, the nature of poetry, and a fine friend —

a companion who is a sweet charmer, and a cupbearer who is a rose-cheeked beauty.

O fortunate star that knows the value of time —

may this pleasure be sweet to you, for you have a fine day.

Whoever has in his mind the burden of a beauty's love —

tell him to put wild rue on the fire, for he has a fine work and burden.

I adorn the bride of my nature with jewels of virgin thought —

perhaps from the hand of the days, a fine portrait will fall into my hand.

Count the night of companionship as a prize, and claim the joy of happiness —

for there is a heart-kindling moonlight and the edge of a lovely tulip-garden.

There is a wine in the cup of the cupbearer's eye — God bless —

that intoxicates the mind and bestows a pleasant hangover.

Life has passed in heedlessness, Hafez — come with us to the tavern,

where the merry ones will teach you a fine craft.