1. To where do I lead a people
Slow to my affection?

2. Yet I yearn to draw near to them
While they shy from my approach.

3. I make myself their boon companion,
Yet they are naught but foes.

4. I seek to mend my ways,
With those who wish my ruin.

5. How oft have I spent freely
On those who scarcely give!

6. I see a sullen people
Because I have noble birth,

7. And I in wealth exulting
While they are dust and shards.

8. Have you not seen me oft
Reclining on cushions soft,

9. Pursuing passion’s wantonness,
My whims demanding,

10. Giving the horse his head to run
Where craven fear’s forbidden,

11. Letting fancies flow uncurbed
No matter how wild the odds,

12. Taking in a haven secure
When fate is prone to chasten-

13. You are a storm-flood’s sweeping waves
Billowing with pique and envy.

14. Else you are a journey far,
Endless, with no supplies,

15. You roamed at dawn, thirst-stricken,
With no provisions,

16. And wandered the waste by night,
Astray, with no guide!