1. The spirit must shun the body,
Let it not brood on grudges and envy,

2. Make your dark resolve eloquent,
Its stars like the claws of eagle and lion.

3. Will you then take heed against the stab of critics
Or with the crescent parry the lion’s claw?

4. He who gives not foundation and prop to his tents,
Who dams not good to the prospering – dams not.

5. To bear the coat of mail atop his stature
Is better for the head than to rest on pillows.

6. And the blow of the horn, triumphant in fray,
Befits him more than disputing an envious tribe.

7. And loving the wine-skins, seeking a draught,
Is nobler than composing vapid verse.