The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam: Mystical Poetry from the East
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**The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam: Mystical Poetry from the East**
"The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam" is a collection of poetic verses attributed to the 11th-century Persian mathematician, astronomer, and poet, Omar Khayyam. The work is renowned for its philosophical and spiritual insights, often exploring themes of life, death, the nature of existence, and the human condition. The rubaiyat, or quatrains, are a form of Persian poetry that typically convey a complete thought or idea in four lines.
### Historical Context
Omar Khayyam was born in Nishapur, Persia (now Iran), and lived during the golden age of Islamic civilization. His life was marked by significant contributions to mathematics and astronomy, but it is his poetry that has secured his legacy, particularly "The Rubaiyat."
### Themes and Style
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The verses of "The Rubaiyat" are characterized by their lyrical beauty and profound wisdom. They often reflect on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of living in the present moment. Khayyam's work is imbued with a sense of mysticism, drawing from Sufi philosophy and the broader Islamic intellectual tradition.
### Influence and Translations
"The Rubaiyat" has been translated into numerous languages, with the most famous English translation being that of Edward FitzGerald in the 19th century. FitzGerald's version introduced Khayyam's poetry to the Western world and has had a lasting impact on English literature.
The influence of "The Rubaiyat" extends beyond literature, with its themes resonating in the visual arts, music, and philosophy. The work has been interpreted in various ways, with some readers finding solace in its contemplation of life's impermanence, while others are inspired by its call to appreciate the beauty of the world.
### Excerpt from "The Rubaiyat"
```plaintext
A Book of Verses underneath the Bough,
A Jug of Wine, a Loaf of Bread—and Thou
Beside me singing in the Wilderness—
Oh, Wilderness were Paradise enow!
```
### Legacy and Significance
"The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam" stands as a testament to the power of poetry to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. Its exploration of universal themes such as the meaning of life, the cycle of existence, and the pursuit of happiness continues to resonate with readers across the globe.
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