We will go on nurturing the slate and pen;

We will continue to write about these things which happen to the heart.

We shall gather reasons for the sorrows of love

And so remove the desolation of the times.

Indeed, the bitterness of days will now increase further;

Indeed, the people of tyranny will continue their tyranny.

This bitterness is accepted; this tyranny is endurable to us;

As long as there is power, then we will go on providing cures for sorrow.

As long as the wine shop is still standing, then with red wine

We will go on decorating the walls and doors of the mosque.

If blood remains in the heart, then we will make from every

Tear colour for the lips and cheeks of the beloved.

A manner of deliberate neglect, so let her be happy with it;

A request for desire, and so we will continue to express it.

       

.

From: Dast-i ṣabā (Hand of the Wind). Dihlī: Senṭral Buk Ḍipo, 1952. pp. 25 – 26

Lauḥ o qalam  is quoted in full in Urdu Poetry, 1935-1970