1. I yearned, though gray hair had come between us,
And dalliance after gray hair is folly,

2. My soul refused to obey and said,
“My love won't enter the monastery.”

3. How can I disobey desire when my heart's clay
Was kneaded with desire before Adam?

4. It robbed me of sleep—egg of a crested lark,
A beauty like a hidden pearl.

5. I called her “a kiss” to gladden my soul.
She said, “If so, I'll be sorrowful.”

6. I said, “You must go home,” and she said,
“Maybe I'm mad!”

7. I said, “Go, for I wish you well,
Better than a kind father, a loving mom.”

8. I'm a fine companion, if you want
Permissible—and you’re a fine companion.

9. She said, “Forget joining with one like me,
And forget dough or bleached flour.”

10. I don't want an old man's hand to touch me.
Why would I be pleased by his flabby grasp?

11. I said, “I'm very rich,” and she said,
“Get away, you pompous Qarun!”

12. “My lord, don't worry I'll slip away—
My composure is well-regulated.”

13. “Test me in any sea, if you wish.
Don't call me a liar, for I'm an octopus.”