1. The beloved companion did not accompany me,
And the rope of affection was not tied.

2. And grey hair has crept into my beard
With some ashen poetry.

3. And the madness of youth has evaded me
After its wondrous intoxication.

4. So if the reckless youths are disciplined
I do not see myself among them or play.

5. What is youth when old age comes
Without its company seeking it out?

6. By my life, their horses have frolicked
On the banks of the Tigris with difficulty.

7. And we returned to the Euphrates and its monk,
Which were the refuge of drinking.

8. On every hill you see a teacher
Who sifts like a lame camel.

9. For the radiant sun on his head
A ray shines like a planet.

10. If the hypocrite of Iraq is blamed one day
He is not admonished.

11. We approached him with little inspection
Of the absentee and the covered.

12. With an army, whenever they descend to defecate
Even if the meadow is barren.

13. And I did not say it out of fear, but
Punishment is due upon the sinner.

14. Nor asking, for with God is the best
Of requests and desires.

15. He gives death and gives life, so what can men hope for
Except to God from whom gifts are sought?

16. When will God carry the burden of a man
On an unpleasant mount he rides?

17. And no man attains anything of his desire
If it is not written.