1. If the vicissitudes of time befall me,
Or time succeeds time in endless flow,

2. Though I woke yesterday fresh as a bridegroom,
Today I totter bent over a staff.

3. When I walk, my back complains it is burdened,
As the curved branch complains when made to bend.

4. I have entertained the silver-pated visitor,
The MAN with the dust-colored cheeks, unloved.

5. His cheek sunken in, unsatisfied with kisses,
His body quaking when passion stirs.

6. Like a switch of nab wood that quivers
In the hand of one gathering sweet basil.

7. For every era I have donned fresh apparel,
Woven of covenant and passionate bond.

8. Until my head was wrapped in a turban of white,
Bereft of deliciousness, deprived of love.