In Chapter 47, Poem 36 of Attar's Mokhtar Nameh, the metaphor of the candle represents self-sustained burning and self-inflicted suffering.

Key Themes:

• Self-Sustenance and Self-Consumption: The candle's sustenance (wax) and its wick are internal, illustrating that the source of its fire and eventual destruction comes from within itself rather than external forces.
• Self-Inflicted Suffering: The candle's burning and melting are portrayed as entirely self-originated ('from my own self'), emphasizing the mystical idea of self-annihilation and taking ultimate responsibility for one's spiritual trial or distress.