1. I spent a night with Layla, and between us
Was a conversation flowing like pure honey.

2. She was captivated by musk, spreading its essence
On the like of it from a smooth, young cheek.

3. She combed it through, till a single white hair
Clung in the teeth of her comb.

4. It flashed out at her, changing her mood
As she tried to grab it, beyond her grasp.

5. Sighing deeply, repeating her breath
Hotter than embers blown in the fire, she said:

6. “You’re getting old,” I said “It’s just a line
That showed itself; pages aren’t made ugly by lines.”

7. She said “By my life, you speak true; they’re
Letters, no doubt, but they trace out steps.”