1. It is the way of fate, to turn away and return,
Nothing lasts in its states, nothing at all,

2. And everything, though it seems eternal, has an end,
Passing away just as people's lives pass away.

3. While the wheels of war turn,
Men meet them, now open, now closed.

4. For those who gloat over our state, there will come a day
When we pounce on them with hopes, just as they pounced.

5. How much blame and horrors I've borne,
Of his life, all is but blame and horrors.

6. My sin against fate - people I befriended;
How could time favor a man they spurned?

7. My heart's love for you was an example;
Today in love examples are made of me.

8. God forbid the days when I lived at ease,
Lost in the coolness of play, heedless.

9. Youth is death, passion a nation,
And those who seek pleasures, forgetful.

10. My nights of revelry and dawns have passed away;
No more nights and dawns for me today.

11. Who can I hope will promise me success among men?
Alas, after them among men, there is no hope.

12. For safety and wealth, I sold you my soul;
A losing deal - no safety, no wealth.

13. By the sanctity of love and ancient covenant,
You have, among all men, reverence and honor.

14. Do not cut the cord between me and you -
The noble soul keeps cords bound.

15. I have the rights of guest and old neighbor;
And those who called you in youth, children.