Observations placeholder
Khusrau, Amir - Ghazal 1155
Identifier
020747
Type of Spiritual Experience
Background
A description of the experience
The Selected Poetry of Amir Khusrau
Ghazal 1155: mast u layaqil guzashtam az dar-i maykhana dush
I passed through the tavern door last night drunk
out of my mind. Before the old vintner
I saw a pilgrim seated. He had left the world
by choice and everything in it behind.
Here and there musicians lay unconscious,
the harp at rest from its twanging, the lute's lament
mum. The banquet taper stood yellow and thin
and trembling; a pleasing flame ran round its head
pleased to burn.
I was about to pass through the door
when suddenly from within, the pilgrim's eye lit
on me, and he started to rail: ''Where have you been?
How long will you wander aimless, you dullard?
Pass beyond yourself. Bring our libation.
Have a glass. Drink with us now down to the dregs
in the Magian temple. Take this advice
and you will attain whatever you wish.'
These tales are not for you, Khusrau. Go!
Don't get so hot and bothered.
You have no fire like this.