Ghazal 350

At dawn, with the resolve of repentance, I said: Let me consult the omen —

the repentance-breaking spring is arriving — what remedy shall I make?

I will speak the truth — I cannot bear to watch

the companions drink wine while I merely observe.

Like a bud, with a smiling lip, in memory of the king's assembly,

I will take the cup and from longing tear my garment.

In the season of the tulip, treat my senses —

if from the midst of the feast of joy I withdraw.

Since from the friend's face the rose of my desire has bloomed for me,

I will assign my enemy's head to the hard stone.

I am a beggar of the tavern — but at the time of drunkenness, see

how I show pride to the sky and give commands to the stars.

I, who have no road or custom of abstaining from morsels —

why should I blame the wine-drinking rend?

I will seat an idol like a sultan on the throne of roses —

from hyacinth and jasmine I will make her a collar and bracelet.

Hafez grew weary of drinking wine in secret —

with the sound of lute and flute, I will make his secret known.