Saki, arise… fill the goblet, present it. Bury the sorrows of the world beneath the earth!

Hand me the wine cup so I might cast off this sky-colored cloak upon me.

To the wise, drunkenness may bear ill repute, but we yearn not for fame or renown.

Serve the wine, how long shall this wind of pride persist? Curse the soul that deceives with such trifles, to the dust with it!

The smoke from my heart’s weeping and wailing scorched these raw and frozen beings, burned them to ashes.

In the populace, nor among the nobles, is there anyone who can comprehend the secret of my mad heart.

Alone, I find solace in the beloved’s memory, sweet and consoling. She took from my heart its peace and tranquility in one fell swoop.

Whoever beholds that silver-limbed beloved can never again gaze upon the cypresses in the meadow with the same eyes.

Hafiz, if you ultimately desire to achieve your heart’s quest one day, endure the trials and tribulations night and day with patience.

**