1. You have become, O son of Harith, utterly confused,
Like a lizard trapped in the crevices of a wall.

2. Whether it squirms and writhes or holds still within,
Either way, its fate is sealed, it will surely fall.

3. Neither staying put nor struggling can save it,
When lodged in the cracks of its stony thrall.

4. Just so are you, if you dare to provoke me,
You’ll find in my verses your limbs I hack and maul.

5. And if you fall silent, vanquished, not triumphant,
My odes will expose your malice and gall.