1. This world of yours is an abode of evil, no joy in it
And its fellow knows not how he may protect himself

2. While a man guards against the wolf for his flock
A lion comes upon him in the highlands lying in wait

3. See you not the pyramids of Egypt, and though lofty
Both shall surely crumble into ruin

4. Had its ruler but obeyed the counsels of reason
It were better than for the mute to speak

5. Among the people are fabricated tales
Planted in men that they may remain and take root

6. Horses were not created from plank and nail
Except to race in fulfilling their master's needs

7. The time of coolness ends, followed by a stretch
Of time, then heat, followed by winter

8. Take, O brother of war, repose, and make for a nation a cradle
For neither coat of mail nor shield shall protect you

9. Nor has the Lord ever favoured a ladle that turns it
Nor treaty of a spear its point and butt

10. Death may miss one thrown in his death throes
And a man perish in a palace that guards him

11. Nor did the zeal of his pride guard him against the slashing of swords
If he spent the night clashing his bells

12. The day has cast the ropes of the sun to set
So that the youth's life may be cut short

13. Creation deemed life a bride, beautiful its making
But rather it is a ghoul, evil its temper

14. While we are nothing and destruction has taken
The course of loss and the likeness of mourning the wedding