1. We parted, and parted from Zainab
And the heart that was youthful grew up

2. Long have I watered my heart towards her
So it yielded from it growths, and blossomed

3. And I called passion for the amusement with her
But my heart declined a guide to it, and refused

4. Separation afflicted us, watering it!
So I endured separation when it afflicted

5. And longing passed but
My eyelids did not weep when it went

6. Another is attached to you and hopes for my connection?
Strange is what you hope for, strange!

7. Can two swords sheathe one scabbard?
Or does the robe wrap any but the victor?

8. This beauty is like water, if
Many draw from it, it is depleted

9. And it is like a flower, if you over
Smell it, O Zainab, it becomes firewood

10. And it is like wealth, if you are extravagant
In spending it on beggars, it is stolen

11. Your excellence the wine has made me hate
Every branch between the breaths of the zephyr

12. And your cheek’s harvest has made me abstain
From talk of roses flourishing in the meadow

13. They saw the full moon and said: her face!
So I was veiled in my garment in escape

14. So veil yourself, O moon, from our eyes
And it is hard for us if you are veiled!

15. I, O Zainab, am water, so if
You stir me, I become turbid and kindled

16. I mount the ship difficult, rough
If my resolve calls me to mount

17. Sailing the paths of glory even if
They paved it with highs and lowness