Subject
Persian poetry -- Translations into English Books
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The Bakhtyār Nāma: A Persian Romance
"The Bakhtyār Nāma: A Persian Romance" by William Ouseley and W. A. Clouston is a collection of Persian romantic tales written in the late 19th century, specifically aimed at English readers. This engaging work of fiction introduces readers to the story of Bakhtyār, a young man of noble birth raised by robbers, who faces wrongful accusations and strives to prove his innocence while navigating the intrigues of royal court life. The narrative intricately weaves themes of fate, loyalty, and the quest for justice amidst compelling character developments and challenges. The opening of "The Bakhtyār Nāma" sets the stage for a dramatic tale of royalty and treachery. It begins with the backstory of King Āzādbakht, who is forced to flee his kingdom with his pregnant queen due to a usurper, ultimately abandoning their newborn son at a well in the desert. The child is adopted by a band of robbers and grows into a formidable youth named Bakhtyār. As Bakhtyār proves his valor and is eventually placed in a position of trust within the royal court, he is targeted by jealous viziers who plot his downfall. From the outset, the narrative builds tension as Bakhtyār faces grave accusations, propelling him into a series of challenges that unveil deeper insights into honor, deception, and the trials of both fate and fortune.
Omar Khayyam
The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam
"The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam" by Omar Khayyam is a translation published in 1859 by Edward FitzGerald, rendering Persian quatrains into English. Initially a commercial failure, the work became wildly popular throughout the English-speaking world by the 1880s, inspiring clubs and a "fin de siècle cult." The poems spark enduring debate: Are they expressions of religious skepticism and Epicurean philosophy, or mystical Sufi verses misunderstood by their translator? The authenticity of the quatrains themselves remains deeply uncertain.
Omar Khayyam
Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyam, Rendered into English Verse
"Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyam, Rendered into English Verse by Omar Khayyam" is a translation published in 1859 by Edward FitzGerald of Persian quatrains attributed to the medieval astronomer-poet Omar Khayyam. Initially unsuccessful, the work gained immense popularity throughout the English-speaking world, inspiring countless editions and Omar Khayyam clubs. The poems sparked enduring debate about their true meaning: were they expressions of religious skepticism and Epicurean philosophy, or mystical Sufi verses misunderstood by the translator? The authenticity of the original Persian quatrains themselves remains uncertain.
Omar Khayyam
Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám, and Salámán and Absál Together with a Life of Edward Fitzgerald and an Essay on Persian Poetry by Ralph Waldo Emerson
"Rubáiyát of Omar Khayyám and Salámán and Absál" by Omar Khayyám, Edward FitzGerald, and Jami is a collection of classic Persian poetry translated into English verse, likely compiled in the 19th century. This work encompasses the famous quatrains of Khayyám, reflecting on themes of love, existence, and the fleeting nature of life, alongside "Salámán and Absál," a narrative poem exploring love and desire. The translations aim to capture the essence of Persian poetry while adapting it for an English-speaking audience. The opening of this edition features an illustration and a preface that outlines the significance of the poets involved, particularly Edward FitzGerald as the translator of Khayyám’s work. It also hints at the biography of FitzGerald, discussing his friendships and literary life, while providing context on the historical background of Omar Khayyám, including his achievements in mathematics and astronomy alongside his poetic legacy. The translations themselves commence with verses that vividly depict the beauty of nature, the joys of wine, and the melancholy of life's transience, inviting readers into a contemplative and lyrical exploration of human emotions and experiences.
active 14th century Ḥāfiẓ
Poems from the Divan of Hafiz
"Poems from the Divan of Hafiz" by Hafiz is a collection of poems compiled in the late 14th century. This divān contains mostly Persian verses, with ghazals forming its centerpiece alongside qasidas, quatrains, and other poetic forms. Hafiz's work demonstrates masterful imagination and linguistic artistry, profoundly influencing Persian literature. The collection survives in roughly 1,700 manuscripts scattered across continents, making it one of the most copied literary works in history. His verses remain woven into everyday Iranian conversation, reflecting an enduring cultural presence that spans centuries.
Sadi
The Bustan of Sadi Translated from the Persian with an introduction
"The Bustān of Sadi" by Sadi is a classic collection of poems entwined with moral lessons, believed to have been written during the 13th century. This work stands out as both a philosophical treatise and a poetic narrative that encompasses profound ethical teachings woven through engaging stories and allegories. It aims to illuminate the virtues of justice, benevolence, love, humility, and resignation, ultimately guiding readers towards better understanding their responsibilities towards themselves and others. The opening of "The Bustān of Sadi" presents a prologue that establishes a spiritual foundation, invoking the name of God and laying out the purpose of the work—to provide wisdom gained from Sadi's extensive travels and experiences. Sadi expresses a desire to share knowledge akin to gifts of sweetness rather than material goods, setting the stage for a series of lessons. These lessons are often imparted through parables of rulers, sages, and common people, illustrating core values centered around justice, compassion, and the human experience. The prose reflects Sadi's sophisticated verse style while aiming to inspire both thought and action in readers, emphasizing that true contentment comes not from worldly wealth but through inner virtue and kindness.
active 14th century Ḥāfiẓ
Songs of Hafiz
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Omar Khayyam
The Sufism of the Rubáiyát, or, the Secret of the Great Paradox
"The Sufism of the Rubáiyát, or, the Secret of the Great Paradox" by Norton F. W. Hazeldine is a philosophical treatise that delves into the spiritual and mystical interpretations of the famous Persian poet Omar Khayyam's works, particularly the "Rubáiyát." Written in the early 20th century, this book provides an exploration of Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam, through the lens of Khayyam's poetry. It likely aims to uncover the deeper truths behind life, existence, and the paradoxes that define the human experience. In this text, Hazeldine presents Khayyam's reflections on the nature of life, death, and the divine, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of self-realization. The work unfolds as a poetic journey where the author illustrates the nuances of life through various metaphysical concepts and allegories, encouraging readers to seek knowledge and enlightenment. Hazeldine touches upon themes such as the significance of time, the essence of happiness, and the transformative power of love and experience, ultimately advocating for a life lived with purpose and in harmony with the cosmos.
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