1. O Abu Nahshal, a lasting farewell
Between anguish and firmness

2. I cannot bear to part from you, even if
My heart were made of solid marble

3. I weep for your loss, O son of my uncle
Not for losing Zainab or Lamees

4. My sorrow is not for Iraq, nor what
Fortune makes it lose of bliss and kiss

5. The soil of Iraq is not ambergris
Nor the water of Tigris sweet to sip

6. But you left in the last of Baghdad
A precious, intimate remnant of yourself

7. Peace be upon you and your household
And your familiar, genial neighborhood

8. Where deeds of time are no cause for blame
And the face of fate is not grim

9. Though you travel for glory and fame
Kept safe in many hearts, acclaim

10. I won't forget your virtues, like stars
Assembled, unmatched even for a prince

11. My soul will wander and wander astray
To new sorrow and dress of dismay

12. Thursday will take me from your face
By force - no blessing in that day!