Poems from the Divan of Hafiz · 17 of 77

Ode XV (I)

XV RETURN! that to a heart wounded full sore Valiance and strength may enter in; return! And Life shall pause at the deserted door, The cold dead body breathe again and burn. Oh come! and touch mine eyes, of thy sweet grace, For I am blind to all but to thy face. Open the gates and bid me see once more!

Like to a cruel Ethiopian band, Sorrow despoiled the kingdom of my heart Return! glad Lord of Rome, and free the land; Before thine arms the foe shall break and part. See now, I hold a mirror to mine eyes, And nought but thy reflection therein lies; The glass speaks truth to them that understand.

Night is with child, hast thou not heard men say? “Night is with child! what will she bring to birth?” I sit and ask the stars when thou’rt away. Oh come! and when the nightingale of mirth Pipes in the Spring-awakened garden ground, In Hafiz’ heart shall ring a sweeter sound, Diviner nightingales attune their lay.