This first Ghazal of Hafiz’s Divan is as mysterious as it is beautiful and wise: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jo5YGfMeElg Translation: O Saqi, come pass the cup ’round and fill it up for love seemed easy at first, but then came difficulties Longing for the sweet scent the morning wind unlocks from her locks …
Hafez sung beautifully
This is one of the most beautiful recordings of Hafez’s ghazals that I’ve ever heard: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHMjOCOJ1oA Translation: As long as there is a name and sign on the tavern My head will be dust on the road of the Magian Pīr The ring of the Magian Pīr has been in my ear since…
The Lovers’ Anthem
This incredibly beautiful, and incredibly rich, ghazal of Hafez is my current favorite: Translation: When you hear the speech of the people of the heart, do not say that it is mistake the mistake is, my dear, not understanding this speech. My head bows neither to this world nor the next Praise God for…
Nightingale: Keats and Hafez
Hafez sang: بلبلى خون جگر خورد و گلى حاصل كرد باد غيرت به صادش خار پريشان دل كرد طوطيى را به خيال شكرى دل خوش بود ناگهش سيل فنا نقش امل باطل كرد Gertrude Bell’s translation: The nightingale with drops of his heart’s blood Had nourished the red rose, then came a wind, And catching…
I carry your heart
This lovely poem by e.e. cummings sounds like it could have been written by Rumi: [i carry your heart with me(i carry it in] by e.e. cummings i carry your heart with me(i carry it in my heart)i am never without it(anywhere i go you go,my dear;and whatever is done by only me is your…