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The Phoenix

by Hafez, 1876

My phoenix long ago secured
   His nest in sky-vault's cope;
In the body's cage immured,
   He is weary of life's hope.

Round and round this heap of ashes
   Now flies the bird amain,
But in that odorous niche of heaven
   Nestles the bird again.

Once flies he upward, he will perch
   On Tuba's golden bough:
His home is on that fruited arch
   Which cools the blest below.

If over this world of ours
   His wings my phoenix spread,
How gracious falls on land and sea
   The soul-refreshing shade!

Either world inhabits he,
   Sees oft below him planets roll;
His body is all of air compact,
   Of Allah's love his soul.

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