Dekha Jo Mujh Gharib Ko Bu-e-adam Ke Kos — Khwaja Haidar Ali Aatish
Meaning
When the fragrance of oblivion saw this poor wretch, it fled away; for a long time it had wished to leave its native land.
Explanation
The poet paints himself as a poor, weary traveller who has long been far from home. The messengers or markers of non-existence, that is, the signs of death, look upon him and recognize him. They seem to say that this lonely wanderer left his homeland ages ago, and so, in a way, he already belongs to the world beyond. There is a gentle sadness here. The speaker feels like a stranger everywhere, worn down by distance and longing. Death does not frighten him so much as it feels like a return, almost a homecoming for someone who has wandered too long. It is a quiet meditation on exile, mortality, and the ache of being away from where one truly belongs.
Interpretation note: meanings and explanations may be AI-assisted and should not replace a primary text or scholarly edition. See the editorial policy.
Audio
Free — just your email. You'll come right back here.
No comments yet. Be the first.