1. I lay awake though my companion slept,
The pebbles of love shattered in his heart,

2. And nothing kept me from rest save the lightning
That peered from Najd and lit the pastures.

3. I sense his features though the sky is overcast
As my eyes rain when I see him weep.

4. And night fluttering its wings reminds me
Of his cloak's flap and his smile's gleam.

5. And clouds trailing trains for rain from on high
To the meadow's sweet grasses that sheep enjoy.

6. Say then of one who inclines as though he were
A snake slithering with no fixed course in view,

7. And water streaming for still pools to fill,
Now showing you a sword and now a shield.