1. By my life! The people of Damascus thrust with spears,
And protect what scandals threaten,

2. They who lead the horses with blood dripping from their necks,
When the polished blades flash in the horror of battle.

3. We fled hastily from our sons, family,
And wives when misfortune befell us.

4. We were cowardly, though no escape from death,
How ugly are those stingy souls.

5. We left them the plains of Iraq, and the curved swords
Carried us, their blades long and straight.

6. Say to the maidens who cry for others,
Do not cry for us except howling dogs.

7. Cry to us in fear that the spears of Christians
And sharp swords will violate them.

8. Cry so they may prevent them from the enemy,
Though hearts harbor what claws scratch.

9. They called us: Where is escape while you
Were jealous that the land and skulls appeared?

10. Did you surrender us to the enemy at Qanna
When the lofty minarets were pulled down?

11. None of you felt jealous for a woman in nightshirts
Or absence that weighed heavily on a husband.