Poems from the Divan of Hafiz 12

Where is my ruined life, and where the fame Of noble deeds? Look on my long-drawn road, and whence it came, And where it leads!

Can drunkenness be linked to piety And good repute? Where is the preacher’s holy monody, Where is the lute?

From monkish cell and lying garb released, Oh heart of mine, Where is the Tavern fane, the Tavern priest, Where is the wine?

Past days of meeting, let the memory Of you be sweet! Where are those glances fled, and where for me Reproaches meet?

His friend’s bright face warms not the enemy When love is done— Where is the extinguished lamp that made night day, Where is the sun?

Balm to mine eyes the dust, my head I bow Upon thy stair. Where shall I go, where from thy presence? thou Art everywhere.

Look not upon the dimple of her chin, Danger lurks there! Where wilt thou hide, oh trembling heart, fleeing in Such mad haste—where?

To steadfastness and patience, friend, ask not If Hafiz keep— Patience and steadfastness I have forgot, And where is sleep?