1. My heart yearned after the calm of youth was past,
Oh, the anguish my heart knew from its longing!

2. I told it, "Patience," for every companion,
Must one day leave their companion.

3. I saw seven men striving for union with her,
Each one in debt to Layla, begging her favors.

4. I cast my arrow among them when they wavered,
But from that I earned only her disdain.

5. My spirit recoiled from sharing her;
I wished to see obedience to me alone.

6. One day she is faithful to her vows,
Another, she follows the creed of Ibn Khagan.

7. Hand in hand, whoever brought her gifts,
Whoever brought no gift was refused her presence.