[Rida]

A translation of ghalibs poem


A children’s playground; the world before me
Nightly and daily, watching its pageantry

Solomon’s throne; but, a game to me
Miracles of Messiah; a mere simplicity

The Universe; I accept, only as a name
All things, before me; nothing, but illusionary

In its dust, hides the desert, when I appear
Rivers bow at their banks, with my fear

Do not ask, in your absence, have I been lonely
Just notice the poise, you display, before me

Arrogant and egoistic; why should not, I be?
My beloved’s reflection is spread all around me

If flowery speech is what you want to see
Then place the wine goblet, right next to me

My hate is a facade, for my uncontrolled envy
Can I stop his name, being uttered before me

Faith restrains me, as temptations attack
The church in front; the mosque at my back

A lover, I am, with deceptive charms
Laila forgets Majnu, when, in my arms

Not to die for; but our union is a delight
Fulfillment of my wish on our separation night

Turbulent waves; no more!; they are a blood-soaked sea
I know not, what else, is in store for me

Though lifeless hands; but eyes, still alive
Leave the flask and wineglass, by my side

My colleague, my confidant; we share the same wine
Do not abuse Ghalib; he is a friend of mine