1. I saw Abu Mirra in a dream
My mentor in eloquence and rhetoric

2. Surrounded by his companions
Pointing at me happily

3. He said, O bearer of good news about whom
We had not seen for so long

4. This is the one I told you
His poetry is unique in this time

5. And he said, had you graced our ears
With some of what you’ve composed recently

6. So I recited in your praise
Masterpieces like pearls

7. Each one said
Excellent! O lord of beautiful meanings!

8. Then he said, with all this praise, do you own
A prosperous farm or land?

9. I said no. He said, nor a house
That satisfies you away from the inn?

10. I said no. He said, nor a swift steed
Pampered at the market, free-reined?

11. I said no. He fell silent disappointed
You are but a blabbering tongue