At the Edge of the Roof

A Zen meditation on a Rumi poem

Sit, be still, and listen, listen, because you’re drunk and we’re at the edge of the roof.

First, with any Rumi quote these days, it is wise to make sure he actually said it. I suspect Rumi may actually be misattributed on the interwebs more than the Buddha. Related to this is that many versions of his actual writings are so creatively interpreted as to be unrecognizable when measured against more conventional translations.

So, is the line real? Fortunately for me the answer is yes. And faithful? Well, yes, as well. Arthur Johns Arberry whose translation of the Quran is considered one of the standards in the academic community has a version perhaps a bit less lyrical, but certainly sturdy and readable.

Arberry’s translation of the entire poem which the line concludes goes:

    Which is the road by which I came? I would return,

for it likes me not here;

    One moment's absence from the Beloved's lane is unlawful

 according to the doctrine of lovers.

    If only in all the village there is someone - by Allah, a sign

would be completely sufficient.

    How shall the finch escape? For even the simurgh is footfast

in this stout snare.

    My heart, do not come wandering in this direction; sit there,

for it is a pleasant station.

    Choose that dessert which augments life, seek that which is

full-bodied;

    The rest is all scent and image and colour, the rest is all war

and shame and opprobrium;

    Be silent, and sit down, for you are drunk and this is the edge

of the roof.