Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam: A New Translation from the Persian

The rubaiyat (quatrains) of Omar Khayyam, a 12th-century Persian astronomer, are a collection of poems that explore subversive, melancholic, and existentialist themes. This modern translation, by Juan Cole, renders the verse for contemporary readers, revealing why it has struck a chord with a diverse audience from medieval Iran to Western modernism.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 30 April 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The rubaiyat, a collection of quatrains attributed to the 12th-century Persian astronomer Omar Khayyam, is a rich tapestry of subversive, melancholic, and existential themes and ideas. Spanning centuries, these verses have enchanted readers with their profound insights into the human condition. In this modern translation, Juan Cole has skillfully rendered the verse, complete with a critical introduction and epilogue, making it accessible to contemporary readers.

Exploring universal questions such as the meaning of life, fate, and how to live a good life in the face of human mortality, this translation unveils the timeless allure of the rubaiyat. It has resonated with audiences across time and culture, from the wine houses of medieval Iran to the poets of Western twentieth-century modernism.

The rubaiyat's themes of love, wine, and the transience of existence continue to resonate with readers today, offering a glimpse into the depths of the human psyche and a meditation on the complexities of life. Through Cole's translation, Khayyam's words have been brought to life, allowing a new generation to appreciate the timeless wisdom and beauty of this celebrated collection.

Weight: 200g
Dimension: 129 x 199 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780755600519