1. O you who left, though you were dear and near
If only wit and deed could keep you here

2. You went away, and longing followed you
Poetry and proverb, all I have in lieu

3. Some blamed me for loving you so much
Censure and blame, how both reproaches touch

4. Show me some grace, do not seek to replace
Kindness and change are not the same in trace

5. Long have I known your excellence, but still
Wine and honey fail my wounds to heal

6. Old I have grown, grieving your absence sore
Greed and hope in me grow young once more

7. Betrayal or boredom, which caused you to roam?
Boredom and betrayal, evils that haunt home

8. They say you're too old to pine and to yearn
Grey hair and verse, both cause you to burn

9. That morn you left at day's first light
Ships and camels prepared for flight

10. Your tents shone as the sun peeked through
Jewels and robes glimmered into view

11. With lowered lids, we bid farewell
Fear and shame, emotions that swell

12. Your heroes marched forth with kohl-lined eyes
Powder and collyrium, symbols of ties

13. Cups of love passed round and round
Wine and kisses intoxicatingly bound

14. Others found solace in your embrace
Clasping and kissing, passions you chase

15. Your presence made the meadows bright
Plains and hills glow in your light

16. Who spied your hips and palms, enthralled
Waist and hand, both enthralléd called

17. O guide of camels, take me too
Haste and patience are not equal to you

18. Only memories and ruins remain
Memory and ruins, which hope sustain

19. My thoughts wander, do not chastise
Can civet and thoughts of you arise?