The Restless Heart

Saeb Tabrizi, a prominent 17th-century Persian poet of the Indian style, is renowned for his vivid imagery, profound metaphors, and intricate expressions of love and longing. This ghazal captures the restless journey of the heart in pursuit of the beloved. The poet reflects on the inevitable sacrifices, the loss of peace, and the fleeting joys that accompany deep affection. With rich metaphors like a ring unpurchased and a moon shining unexpectedly, Saeb conveys the bittersweet nature of love and human desire.

🌿 Whoever beheld the beloved, lost their heart’s peace.

No escape remains for the one ensnared by such a lease.

While thoughts of you danced, I was a lovestruck soul—

You unveiled yourself, and the story met its goal.

The moon does not shine during the day—what appeared?

A cypress cannot grow on rooftops—who interfered?

None would buy the ring of my narrow heart, alas—

O Lord, this ocean of grace, where did its gems pass?

Sorrow and joy departed—neither lingered,

Even for a moment, the image of you never faltered.

The shade of paradise, the allure of heavenly streams,

Could not tempt my heart—it left, chasing its dreams.

🌹✨