1. Tell the one who finds fault with my eulogizing poetry,
Don’t you see how trees are fashioned?

2. The rough bark and dry wood are assembled in them,
Along with thorns, yet also fruit.

3. It would be better if what the Lord of all lords creates
Were refined, not what humans make.

4. But that is not the case. Rather, apart from that,
Things happen according to fate’s decree.

5. God knows best what He plans for us
In all the good He destines.

6. So let people forgive whoever errs
Or falls short in poetry—he is only human.

7. His goal is like one groping in muddy darkness
For pearls, heedless of peril.

8. Let them remember his mind is racked,
His thoughts worn out by the crafting of verses.

9. In it is what the discerning take,
Precious and fine, and what they spurn.

10. For one diving from a cliff, there is no choice
But to grasp what is chosen or scorned.