The Kasîdah of Hâjî Abdû El-Yezdî

"The Kasîdah of Hâjî Abdû El-Yezdî" by Sir Richard Francis Burton is a reflective gathering of late 19th-century poems. Exploring life's puzzles, truth, and what it means to be human through the eyes of Hâjî Abdû, it takes readers on a journey of self-growth and understanding. Throughout the story, Burton questions the nature of understanding and the search for happiness in a world full of suffering. Opening with vivid descriptions of night turning into day, the story sets a tone of departure and loss using horses, camels, and the image of a caravan headed to Mecca. These opening verses show an acceptance of life's fleeting moments and the reality of goodbyes. As the main character thinks about what it means to exist, they question happiness and sorrow. This creates a rich exploration of human experience, encouraging readers to think about their own lives and the universal truths that connect everyone.