Samarqand and Bokara

There is a story that the invader Timur angrily summoned Hafez and demanded if he was the poet who would exchange two of Timur’s great cities, Samarqand and Bokara, for the mole on his mistress’s cheek.

“Yes, sir”, replied Hafiz, “and it is through such acts of generosity that I have reached a state of destitution that forces me to solicit your bounty.”

 Timur was amused enough to send the poet away with a gift. The truth of this story is questioned by those who claim Timur arrived at Shiraz after Hafiz had gained his tomb.