Persian lyric poet Hafiz (1310-1390) is one of the most renowned poets of Persian literature. 

He is renowned for his numerous ghazals that delve into themes of love, spirituality, and protest, making him a prominent figure in Iranian culture. 

Many of his poems have become common proverbs or sayings. His tomb is located in Musalla Gardens, Shiraz, where Israel has recently attacked.

I share his Ode 487 here. Read on - 

With last night’s wine still singing in my head, 

I sought the tavern at the break of day, 

Though half the world was still asleep in bed; 

The harp and flute were up and in full swing, 

And a most pleasant morning sound made they; 

Already was the wine-cup on the wing. 

‘Reason,’ said I, ‘’t is past the time to start, 

If you would reach your daily destination, 

The holy city of intoxication.’   

So did I pack him off, and he depart 

With a stout flask for fellow-traveller. 

Left to myself, the tavern-wench I spied, 

And sought to win her love by speaking fair; 

Alas! she turned upon me, scornful-eyed, 

And mocked my foolish hopes of winning her. 

Said she, her arching eyebrows like a bow: 

‘Thou mark for all the shafts of evil tongues! 

Thou shalt not round my middle clasp me so, 

Like my good girdle – not for all thy songs! – 

So long as thou in all created things 

Seest but thyself the centre and the end. 

Go spread thy dainty nets for other wings – 

Too high the Anca’s nest for thee, my friend.’ 

Then took I shelter from that stormy sea 

In the good ark of wine; yet, woe is me! 

Saki and comrade and minstrel all by turns, 

She is of maidens the compendium 

Who my poor heart in such a fashion spurns. 

Self, HAFIZ, self! That thou must overcome! 

Hearken the wisdom of the tavern-daughter! 

Vain little baggage – well, upon my word! 

Thou fairy figment made of clay and water, 

As busy with thy beauty as a bird. 

Well, HAFIZ, Life’s a riddle – give it up: 

There is no answer to it but this cup.