1. My soul finds solace, though solace evades it,
In the sickness and turmoil of my inner being.

2. Long ago, I accepted the sorrow that afflicted me,
That sweet yet bitter resigned one.

3. How often have I turned away from wealth that called me,
Nor wept for the past or the days yet to be.

4. My wealth is nothing but my soul, for if I rise through it,
Should I fall, my ruin lies in the debris.

5. My glory lies not in skill but in my passion
That transcends the foolish goals I devise.

6. If I live a life that brings me contentment,
My heart alone determines if that suffices.

7. I care not how the vulgar scorn and shun me,
But I care that I turn my back on their ways.

8. If I stray into villainy and greed,
It is not hardship that lifts me, or public praise.

9. No grand reception where sycophants flock
Swells me with vanity, reverence or zeal.