1. For what difficult matter do I grieve?
Shall I rise and lament, or keep still and be resolute?

2. Had the secret of my critic been just to me, I would not
Complain of her tyranny to anyone.

3. A fighter has failed with her though eloquent,
While a silent man has been favored by her though incoherent.

4. Had a means brought me to the Imam,
People would know which of the two seekers is worthy.

5. I blame my brethren, but do not fault them;
It is the despicable who is blamed.

6. I had hoped – and hope is an avenue –
For Ali bin Yahya, the greatest hope.

7. My literary manners turn my companions’ looks to him
While the affection between us continues to grow.

8. I have urged him to glory as though
The writer has bent his letters in good formation for him.

9. Abu Hassan, your justice regarding them
Was only because you understand.

10. You are not the second in the lead, and I am not
The daring one who transgresses.

11. Except that his permission may sometimes be delayed,
And his cheerful face may sometimes frown.

12. I am dejected if I become burdensome when needy,
Yet I was light when I had nothing.

13. I shall carry myself away from you like an intimate friend,
And highly value myself if the soul is to be valued.

14. I shall keep away until the land comes between us,
And meeting becomes an uncertain future.

15. Peace be upon you. Farewell is short, so it has folded up,
And goodbye is concise. Greetings from your brother.

16. Unless the nights assist me, the priority of fortune
May be delayed.

17. Nothing prevented Fath bin Khāqān from attaining it,
But destiny gives and deprives.

18. A cloud whose generosity rained upon me while pouring,
And a sea whose hand favored me while flooding;

19. And a full moon that illuminated the earth east and west,
While my feet’s position is a dark gloomy place.

20. Shall I complain of its vicinity after it encompassed the land?
Who would blame rain except the displeased?