LIFE, LOVE AND SORROW

For what cause should I disown my fealty?

If not a life of love, let it be of grief and sorrow be.

Give me something to live for, O you unjust world!

If nothing else, at least a respite, from my anxiety.

Even I, will one day, prove my loyalty to you,

Though it’s now your habit to ignore and insult me.

Let us also be busy O poetic soul,

If not peace or love, let it be fear and worry.

Author's Notes/Comments: 

This is a translation of one of Mirza Ghalib's ghazals...posted here on the 22nd of March, 2009.

View emmenay's Full Portfolio