By: Muti‘ ibn Iyas (704–85)
"It was morning in Baghdad, we were carousing,
stirred by a white face and deep-black eyes.In a house where glasses are akin
to stars whirling in the dark among drinking companions.Our cupbearer mixed wine or served it pure;
what a wonderful wine when mixed!Saffron powder was sprinkled over us,
above our heads crowns of golden jasmine.I was still drinking when sunset arrived,
between melodies of castanets and lute.
