1. O builder of the staircase, which, had it sense,
Its ruin would have been foremost in its thought,

2. Build no edifice that plays the pimp
And beautifies the daughters of Abu'l-Banat for its neighbor.

3. None built it but a man of violent passion
Who admires the steep height of its gable.

4. O builder of the staircase, so stoutly constructed
With rock transported on his shoulders,

5. Thanks for letting me violate his harem;
Nay rather, for multiplying my in-laws.

6. How many a heedless man hast thou hoodwinked
With shame for his help and for his daughters!

7. Had he been jealous he had demolished it with his mouth and nose
Seeking vengeance for it until his dying day.

8. But he is a man who decks out his wedding feast
That his daughters may increase their partisans.