1. When the garden wilts, it blooms again
More verdant than meadows, gentle and green

2. With wonders of old tales newly told
Of events passed, scenes now to unfold

3. Watered at the meadow’s edge,
Their backs are sated, their bellies a wedge

4. Of burgeoning clouds, rain in store
To greet you in reds, in blacks galore

5. You’d think them brides in their gowns anew
As if the past returned to you

6. Alone, their minds quench your thirst
With founts of wisdom as you immerse

7. With child, still graced in strange attire
As if clothed in gossamer, liquid fire

8. A touch betrays their hands’ perfume
Fingers eased, in rest consumed

9. Their gardens multiply in kind
Adorned in brocade, jewels designed

10. A garden the minds embellish; a bower
The rain and clouds devour

11. Two regiments clash with reason and wit
In battle, intelligence rules every bit

12. War’s arena with no blood or life taken
As if shedding ink, lines forsaken

13. You see two warriors charge ahead
One advancing, one impeded

14. Some cry out as they march in line
Others waver, ranks inclined

15. Marvel at war, with men aroused
No commoners, only virtuosos

16. Judges of human nature they may be
But seldom judge with equity

17. Two brothers both scarred in their own way
Inciting the fool to passion’s sway

18. To one fortunate, their aspect is bright
To one afflicted, their power takes flight

19. Together, they enrich a youth inspired
Or harm him, lessons acquired

20. A spectrum of wine that meets the eye
Is the joy of souls made plenary

21. Like brides arrayed in scents composed
Just distinguished by garlands disclosed

22. The fullest goblet held up high
None match it, green with envy they vie

23. Figures made lasting, preserved in their prime
Bodies green, souls shielded by time

24. Whitening the days of privation in calm
Reddening riotous days, refusing harm

25. Boys conspire to break sacred law
And become the murdered, not the outlaw

26. I’ve pondered their wanton ways before
And found them essentially hollow at core

27. Rouse yourself, Abu Bakr, pursue desire
Unfettered by doubt, boldly aspire

28. Join in wholesome drink for it confers
In your company joy that perseveres

29. Your friendship contents me, hours sweet
One like you makes bliss complete