Un presagio da Hafez
Ghazal 405
By the soul of the tavern's Elder, and the right of his company —
there is nothing in my head but the longing to serve him.
Though Paradise is not the sinner's dwelling-place,
bring wine — for I am upheld by the strength of his high aim.
May the lightning-lamp of that cloud shine ever bright
that struck upon our harvest the fire of his love.
Upon the tavern's threshold, if you spy a head,
strike it not with your foot — for its intent is hidden.
Come — for last night, in drunkenness, the Surush of the Unseen
brought the glad news: His mercy's grace is free to all.
Look not with contempt's eye upon me in my cups,
for neither sin nor abstinence stands free of His will.
My heart inclines not to abstinence and vows; and yet
for the Master's name we strive, and for his fortune's splendour.
Forever Hafez's frock lies pledged for the price of wine;
perhaps his very nature was moulded of the tavern's dust.