The horse of life is galloping in full momentum, who knows where it will come to a halt; neither is the hand on the reins nor is the foot in the stirrup.

Ghalib captures the utter helplessness of the human condition by comparing life to a spirited, runaway steed galloping at full speed. The chilling beauty of this image lies in our total lack of control—we hold no reins in our hands, nor do our feet rest securely in the stirrups. We are merely along for the ride, swept forward by the relentless momentum of time toward a destination we cannot foresee.