An Exchange of the Best
“Amidst laughter and rivalry, the audacious poet Abu Nowas navigates both wit and wisdom in the Court of Caliph Harun Al-Rashid.”
Caliph Harun Al-Rashid had a gifted poet in his court named Abu Nowas. Abu was a jolly man, always seeking pleasure. One night, while feasting and drinking in his garden house, two courtesans danced before him, adding to his merriment.
The Caliph, known for roaming about at night, decided to pay Abu a surprise visit. However, because Abu was partly drunk and utterly audacious, he displayed no surprise at all. He remained seated on his velvet cushion and merely nodded at the royal visitor.
Abu’s indifference annoyed the Caliph. “Abu Nowas!” he exclaimed, “You cease to be my court-poet. From now on, you are the judge of all the thieves, vagabonds, and fools.” Abu responded with a grin, “Very good. Now, I am ready to try your case. What is your complaint? To which of the three categories do you belong?” Offended, the Caliph left immediately.
The very next day, Abu appeared in court as usual and recited an excellent poem praising the Caliph. While all the courtiers applauded, the Caliph remained sulking from the previous night’s insult. In a fit of anger, he ordered his guards to strip Abu of his court attire, dress him as a buffoon, and drag him through the streets to face ridicule. Ultimately, he decreed that Abu was to be beheaded.
The guards dragged Abu through the streets, and when they brought him back to the court in his ludicrous attire, the Caliph was amused. “Look here, you audacious fellow. People will ask what has befallen you. What will you say in response?” To this, Abu replied, “O Commander of the Faithful! I shall say that I gave my master, the great Caliph, the best of my verses; he, in return, has given me the best of his clothes!” The poet’s witty answer so impressed the Caliph that he restored Abu to his position and rewarded him handsomely.