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VERSES WRITTEN FOR THE MENU OF THE OMAR KHAYYAM CLUB (1), by                 Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography
First Line: Salaam to omar! We that meet tonight
Last Line: Therefore to omar once again -- salaam!
Alternate Author Name(s): Dobson, Austin
Subject(s): Omar Khayyam (1048-1122)


SALAAM TO OMAR! We that meet to-night
Have bid Black Care be banished, and invite
The Rose, the Cup, the not-too-ancient Jest
To help, and cheer us, -- but beyond the Rest,
Peaceful Digestion with its blissful Calm.
Therefore to OMAR once again -- SALAAM!

SALAAM TO OMAR! Life in truth is short,
And mortal Man of many Ills the Sport;
Yet still th' Oasis of the Board commends
Its Vantage-Ground for cheerful Talk of Friends,
And brings Oblivion, like an Eastern Balm.
Therefore to OMAR once again -- SALAAM!

SALAAM TO OMAR! Many Things must go
Down the dim Way that leads to Weal or Woe;
But kindly Hearts and kindly Thoughts will last
Till Time himself -- the Arch-Iconoclast --
Drops the last Coin in Charon's withered Palm.
Therefore to OMAR once again -- SALAAM!





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