1. I knew Layla between the remains of an abandoned camp,
In dwellings stronger than summer resort or square building.

2. Towards the bent road from Wasit, nothing was apparent to us
Except the ribs of the plucked ostrich.

3. And smooth ground where fire was kindled around, as though
Coated with tar or polished bitumen.

4. And a young, brisk she-camel with swollen udder that looks as if
It were the paws of a dead beast whose skin was not peeled off.

5. My heart insisted on loving her, though she is a Harithi woman
Neighboring my enemies while her enemies are with me.

6. Just as the hyena of Balqaa showed its canine,
A foul looking striped hyena with dyed fur.

7. The foul striped hyena has hollow flanks yet is corpulent
With a silky robe and shredded raiment.

8. My camels refused the water of ponds and befriended
The percolated drink of Sami and twisted hillocks.