Love came and emptied me of self, Every vein and every pore, Made into a container to be filled by the Beloved. Of me, only a name is left, The rest is You my Friend, my Beloved. -Abu Sai’d Abu’l Khayr (trans. Vraje Abramian) from Nobody Son of Nobody. Hohm Press, 2001 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xyn3rHLw3zY Turn…
Variations on a Theme: Heaven and Hell
My Beloved, this torture and pain I suffer because I am so addicted to Your Beauty. People ask me whether I prefer Your company to being in heaven. Heedless fools, what would heaven itself mean without the Friend’s Presence? -Abu Sa’id Abu’l Khayr (trans. Vraje Abramian) from Nobody Son of Nobody. Hohm Press, 2001 Selected…
Variations on a Theme: Alone with Love
In music and words… O my Lord, the stars glitter and the eyes of men are closed. Kings have locked their doors and each lover is alone with his love. Here, I am alone with you. -Rabi’a al-Basri (trans. Charles Upton) The lovers have all gone to bed And I’m alone…