1. O that Layla had seen us undaunted
When we descended all together in the marketplace

2. Baring our teeth, lips curled back
Like lions baring their fangs from their burrows

3. We strode, the quick of the people passing their laden ones
With the gait of strong-boned, slender-bodied camels

4. And the people in two groups, some full of rancorous hate
And some choking on tears of rage in their eyes

5. They let out cries against us from every side
As though roused by the blast of a trumpet

6. And on the rooftops were effigies like corpses
Weeping the wailing of passion not yet tasted

7. From every broadcaster a branch to see us
And scattered greenery not yet dispersed

8. Striking hot faces untouched
By the winds of poison or the suns of daybreak

9. Their necks craning as if from goblets tipped back
Of the drinks being passed around those pitchers

10. Until we reached a frowning Dowjah sitting
Having left the people of God's house in distress

11. Spitting saliva from her mouth when she spoke
As though she had chewed the bitter colocynth