1. When you asked me, I gave you the answer
Yet how many doors did speech open for me

2. You blamed me, and I had done no wrong against you
So I bear your reproach though I am not to blame

3. I never refused you, though fate at your side
Made me seem to you wayward and unstable

4. I was hurt that you, who were my friend
Condemned me for my crime, or denied me what is right

5. If I had cut myself off from you, I'd not have been rebuked
Or lashed myself to you though you spurned me

6. And when one day I thirsted for you
I returned, but found only a mirage

7. If you are aloof, I desire no nearness
If you depart, I hope for no return

8. You have from me no messenger to observe me
You have from me no letter to read

9. Oh shame on the faces of people
Who in their requests bow down their necks

10. They poured modesty from their faces
And took in exchange only dust

11. Though they raise lofty buildings, they are
Deep in the pit of infamy

12. He who lacks all good
Gains nothing from wearing clothes