Abu Nuwas



Abu Nuwas (756–814), Arab poet; Libertine pederast, lived in Baghdad during the reigns of Caliphs Harun al-Rashid and Muhammad al-Amin. His poetry describes a life of debauchery, wine, boys and women.

Quotes

 * Critic, relent! Your hope for repentance Will meet with disappointment. For this is the life, Not desert tents, Not camel's milk!
 * Diwan, 11–12.


 * You, mad to expect repentance, Tear your robe all you want; I will never repent!
 * Diwan, 11–12.


 * I bought abandon dear And sold all piety for pleasure. My own free spirit I have followed, And never will I give up lust.
 * Diwan, 164.