1. The eggs survived, though their shells were stained with blood,
But never once did I escape the words of a fool.
١. نجوتُ القَنا والبيضُ تدمى مُتونُها
ولم أنجُ يوماً من مقالِ سَفِيهِ
2. For a man's pride in his merit comes from within himself,
Far greater for him than pride in his father.
٢. ففخرُ الفتى بالفضلِ منه وعنده
أجلُّ له من فخرهِ بأبيهِ
3. How great the gulf between chaste honor and disgrace!
How great the difference between sluggard and hero!
٣. فكمْ بين عِرْضٍ سالمٍ ومُمزَّقٍ
وكم بين مرءٍ خاملٍ ونبيهِ
4. Often I've said to my reckless soul, fleeing from strife:
"Turn back, lest you be turned back against your will!"
٤. وكم قلتُ للنّفسِ العَزوفِ لَدى الوغى
رِدِي مَكْرَعاً من قبل أنْ تَرِدِيهِ
5. Do not ask me to flee ruin and shame,
For if you seek to cast it off, you'll ne'er be rid of it.
٥. ولا تَطلبي منّي الفِرارَ على الرّدى
فإنّك إنْ رُمتِيهِ لم تجِدِيهِ