Yilmaz Alimoglu

Image via Wikipedia

Muhammad Fuzuli (1498-1556), Ottoman poet, writer and thinker. He was also well versed in mathematics and astronomy
LAYLA and MAJNUN

Herein is set forth the Manner in which Mejnun encountered Leyla, and how,
from this Meeting, the Crescent of his Love waxed to a Full Moon.

The world’s bright candle, early Spring, came new
And brought the bounteous gift of life restored,
And spread afar its veil of pearly blue,
And urged the nightingale to trill its song;
Spread far the limped wine of morning dew,
And filled the open’d tulip’s crimson cup;
Inflamed the rose that in the garden blew
Agleam with turquoise and the ruby’s glow

His friends about Mejnun now crowded thick
And urged a change of life, well knowing he was sick.
‘Mejnun, come, look around and see the rose,
That in the springtime now so gaily blows.
Now is the time when hope is born anew.
Come! Gather now thy friends! Thou hast a few!

No cloud art thou; rain not these salty tears:
Thou art no torrent; moan not; banish fears?
Let not the rose’s thorn thy bosom rend,
Nor for a pillow to the earth descend.
Come out to fields and woods, where grows the vine,
With all thy friends, come, sing and quaff the wine!
Come with thy friends, a-seeking out new ways;
Leave grief behind with winter’s chilly days.

‘Come, seek the vineyard where the age-long art
May banish grief. Take heed lest others smart.
Thou art the cypress of the age, the rose;
Wed not thyself to sorrow’s grief: seek those
Of joyous soul, for care is body’s woe,
And constant grief distills a poison slow.
Remember too, the rose of thy desire
May yet come forth. Feed not despair’s dull fire.
Come! Walk abroad, for these glad days of spring
May unsuspected joys and pleasure bring.’

Translated by Sofi Nuri

Fuzuli: "Don't ask Fuzuli for poems of praise or rebuke; I am a lover and speak only of love "