The Cruelty of Love

Foroughi Bastami, a 19th-century Persian poet, masterfully conveys the agony of unfulfilled love in his poetry. This ghazal is a lament for the beloved’s indifference, where the poet questions the fairness of separation and the absence of loyalty. With striking imagery of a thirsty soul reaching the water’s edge yet denied a sip, he portrays the cruelty of love’s trials. The poem beautifully captures the universal longing for affection and the sorrow of unanswered devotion.

🌿 O you who find it just to keep lovers apart,

Why do you let love suffer, breaking hearts?

You lead the thirsty to the fountain’s gleam,

Yet deny them a sip—was love but a dream?

Who can heal the wounds of my despair?

If not with a cure, at least leave me there.

Though distant from you, we seek you alone,

Tell me, beloved, where has your loyalty gone?

🌹✨