THIS refers to the essay ‘Re-reading evergreens’ (June 20) which deftly reviewed some books of distinguished writers. The significant incidents of history it has narrated have unquestionably spurred a lot of curiosity and interest among history-lovers.

However, the episode of Tamerlane (1336-1405) and Sheikh Saadi Shirazi needs to be corrected. In fact, it was not ‘Sheikh Saadi Shirazi’ (1210-1290), but ‘Hafiz Shirazi’ (1315-1390) who in his couplet avowed to give away the land between Samarkand and Bokhara for the mole on his beloved’s cheek.

Tamerlane, following one of conquests, asked Hafiz if he had composed the couplet. Hafiz replied in the affirmative and then justified it with a fabled quip. Tamerlane, the dreaded conqueror in whose presence mighty rulers used to tremble with fear and awe, was much amused with the reply and dismissed him with handsome gifts.

Altamash M. Kureshi
Karachi

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THIS is with reference to the essay ‘Re-reading evergreens’ (June 20), which, while relating an episode about Tamerlane, has mentioned Sheikh Saadi. The fact is that the exchange was with Hafiz Shirazi about the opening verse of one of the most famous and often quoted pieces of poetry, which goes as follows:

Sheikh Abdul Malik
Karachi

Published in Dawn, June 25th, 2021