My tall-statured, coquettish, and smart beloved
Made my long story of ascesis short.
O heart, did you see what my love-seeking eye did to me
In my old age, after all that austerity and learning?
I tried to cover the sign of love with my ostentatious cloak.
My tear was a talebearer and disclosed my secret.
The friend is drunk and does not recall his drinking pals.
Blessed be the memory of my Saqi, the cherisher of the poor.
O Lord, when will blow that zephyr
Whose scent of kindness can set my affairs right?
At present, I am drawing a picture on water with my tears
And wondering when this unreal figure will become real.
I am afraid of losing my faith, for the mehrâb of
Your eyebrow takes away the presence of my prayers.
Like a candle, as I smile, I cry for myself and wonder
What my fire and patience will do to you stony-hearted.
Ascetic, since your prayers do not accomplish anything,
My nightly intoxication and supplication are better at least.
Grief consumed Hafes. O zephyr, relate his condition
To the king who nurtures friends and destroys enemies.