Mahsati was a well renowned Ganja-born poetess of the 12th century whose name resounded way beyond the city walls. This gracious lady was not only known to be the first female to play chess, but also a determined fighter against dogmatic religion, arbitrary male dominance and hypocrisy. Mahsati was famous for composing poems that glorify the joy of living and the fullness of love.

Here is a translation of one of her poems that captures the free spirit.

The Pathway Finally Opened

English version by David and Sabrineh Fideler

When my heart came to rule
in the world of love,
it was freed
from both belief
and from disbelief.

On this journey,
I found the problem
to be myself.

When I went beyond myself,
the pathway finally opened.

See more at: http://www.poetry-chaikhana.com/blog/2012/01/20/mahsati-ganjavi-the-pathway-finally-opened/#sthash.gVElbNcD.dpuf