Let's bring joy to this heart that's sad and worn,
Come, my cypress, let’s walk to Sa’d-âbâd’s1 adorn.
There are three skiffs ready at the pier,
Come, my cypress, let’s walk to Sa’d-âbâd near.
Let’s laugh and play, and from this world take delight,
Drink from the New Fountain’s waters so bright.
From that dragon flows the life-giving stream's sight
Come, my cypress, let’s walk to Sa’d-âbâd’s light.
Sometimes, let’s stroll by the pool with grace,
Sometimes, let’s marvel at the Garden Palace’s face.
Sometimes, let’s sing songs, or recite with pace,
Come, my cypress, let’s walk to Sa’d-âbâd’s place.
With permission from mother for Friday prayer,
One day let’s escape the world’s cruel snare.
Wander to the pier by hidden paths rare,
Come, my cypress, let’s walk to Sa’d-âbâd’s air.
Just you, and I, and a minstrel with pure flair,
If you allow, let mad Nedim join us there.
Let’s leave friends for a day, my charming fair,
Come, my cypress, let’s walk to Sa’d-âbâd’s care.
Translated by: Mehmet Barın Erturan
- Sadabad was a royal Ottoman complex located in the present day Kağıthane district of Istanbul. To learn about Sadabad click here ↩︎