1. Ask the maidens of this neighborhood about me
They will tell you what they have seen and heard

2. Did I not give shade to those in need?
Did I not prepare the people for war?

3. Did I not welcome guests?
Did I not lead in times of strife?

4. I was content with those who blamed me
Even if they were harsh towards me

5. They blamed me in the morning and saw my generosity
With my life on the tips of spears

6. I said to them, is there any good left in you
As time passes by?

7. How many dawns have I been blamed
Yet I woke up not bothered by them

8. And if death is feared
As a way of life, why wish for it?

9. I will bear witness to what I have done
By speaking openly with you all

10. If I die, it is my appointed time
And it will come even if I avoid you

11. And if I live, it is a debt to be repaid
And I will follow you if you lead me

12. So do not tell me to live in humiliation
For I will not obey such a command

13. And one who comes to me in secret
Saying she returns to my advice, may she be cursed!

14. When she did not find hope she turned away
And spoke accusingly and said

15. Do you see what my cousins say
When women describe their men?

16. By God, they will not spend the night in regret
Making up words and excuses

17. Rather I will find for them a description
And speak at length in praise of them

18. Whenever my writing approaches its end
I die between pleading and accusing

19. And death in a place of honor is more beloved
To the knights than life in disgrace