1. The air is pure, unobstructed by any building
Neither distracting me, nor providing sustenance besides it

2. It is the best sustenance, invigorating the toiler
With generous gifts from the benevolent sea

3. In a spot where, in summer, neither easterly winds
Blow, nor gales disturb its calm

4. And the water beats against the sides of its waves
Leaving the surroundings serenely still

5. In Port Said, though it makes me feel
As if on a ship tossed by the weather

6. If not for the ground beneath me, I'd think
Myself surrounded by water and sky

7. And I imagined, over the years, that in fact
The names differed, though the exile was one

8. Midday comes, but its meal does not tempt
My soul - for me, the breeze itself is food

9. Except when evening falls early
Bringing supper ahead of time

10. I hungrily devour the delicious meal
And sleep without need of a cover

11. I rise feeling vigorous, my limbs sensing
Their strength return, and ready to continue