Translated by A. Z. Foreman - Ghazal 195, For the Love of God lyrics

Do you hear the advice we're getting from harps and lutes tonight? "They're on an infidel-hunt. Don't drink unless you're out of sight." They say: don't speak or hear innuendo about what lovers do. It's a hard teaching, a harsh sentence they're giving me and you. They smear the grace of lovers, strip love of its dignity. They scorn the old and tell the young such things should never be. Standing outside, I was beguiled by a hundred wiles and tales. I wish I knew just what goes on behind closed doors and veils. They're giving the old Magian priest trouble again. Have you Seen what these novice punks are willing to put those old men through? A single glance can buy a hundred honors for one's appeal. The fault lies with the fair who make us take such an unfair deal. Some strive and struggle to be joined unto the Friend in love. And others freely let Fate be sent to them from above. In sum: do not count on the world to have consistency. It is a workshop where all things are changed up constantly. Bring wine! Qur'an-wonks, clerics, sheikhs, inquisitors of God... Look close, and you'll see all of them are ministers of fraud.