The Bird of Heaven

The bird of heaven sang unto the rose, New blown in the clear dawn: “Bow down thy head! As fair as thou within this garden close, Many have bloomed and died.” She smiled and said, “That I am born to fade grieves not my heart, But never was it a true lover’s part To vex with bitter words his love’s repose.” The humble step shall be thy sanctuary, For Love’s divine breath comes but to those Who humbly on the dusty threshold lie. And thou, if thou would’st drink the wine that flows From Life’s bejewelled goblet, ruby red, Upon thine eyelashes thine eyes shall thread A thousand tears for this temerity. Last night when Eden’s magic garden slept, Stirring the hyacinth’s purple tresses curled, The wind of morning through the alleys stept. “Where is thy cup, the mirror of the world? Ah, where is Love, thou Throne of Grace?” I cried. The breezes knew not; but “Alas,” they sighed, “That happiness should sleep so long!” and wept. The humble step shall be thy sanctuary, For Love’s divine breath comes but to those Who humbly on the dusty threshold lie. And thou, if thou would’st drink the wine that flows From Life’s bejewelled goblet, ruby red, Upon thine eyelashes thine eyes shall thread A thousand tears for this temerity. Not on the lips of men Love’s secret lies, Remote and unrevealed his dwelling-place. Oh Saviour, come! the idle laughter dies When thou the feast with heavenly wine dost grace. Patience and wisdom, Hafiz, in a sea Of thine own tears are drowned; thy misery They could not still nor hide from curious eyes. The humble step shall be thy sanctuary, For Love’s divine breath comes but to those Who humbly on the dusty threshold lie. And thou, if thou would’st drink the wine that flows From Life’s bejewelled goblet, ruby red, Upon thine eyelashes thine eyes shall thread A thousand tears for this temerity. The bird of heaven sang unto the rose, New blown in the clear dawn: “Bow down thy head! As fair as thou within this garden close, Many have bloomed and died.” She smiled and said.