1. I see livelihoods for all people,
Yet I, Abu Hassan, have no livelihood.

2. I have a master who showers arrows on others,
So why do I not see my arrow being feathered?

3. Yes, he has feathered me with fine feathers,
And blessed me with vitality.

4. I would slake my thirst, if I could slake it,
With what the thirsty beasts slake theirs.

5. But my chronic thirst is my ruin,
Can any water slake the thirst of withered plants?

6. Yes, if destiny would help me
And the rain of my Lord burst forth.

7. So patience - the rain has feathered patience,
The downpour is heralded by the drizzle.