1. Alas! Time’s treacheries confound,
And time’s calamities astound.

2. Now clarity must lift the veil,
And end illusions that assail.

3. How many a nation’s passed away,
Succeeded by its future day.

4. With watchful eyes and listening ears,
If only they were free of fears.

5. I’ve seen but one who's left his place,
His belongings in disgrace,

6. Saying he is most forlorn,
While those before smile in scorn.

7. And none rejoice except the day
Is followed by grief’s endless sway.

8. How evil is time’s endless march,
With debt and ruin in its arch.

9. Not heeding counsel though sincere,
But deeming good advice unclear.

10. My heart was shaken yesterday,
By tidings echoing dismay.

11. Unhesitating, leaving no room for lies,
The truth appeared before my eyes.

12. Alas the dearness and the home are gone,
And the cave of the lion lonesome and wan.

13. A blossoming branch of glory is laid low,
Stronger than a lofty palace in its blow.

14. Why do the meadows not pour out their flowers?
Their buds and branches are not ours.

15. Why do the stubborn hills not crack in pain?
Why is the blossom still again?

16. Why do the oryx not pitch their tents?
Why are the nightingales not rent?

17. Thus the bright moon is eclipsed fulfilling its round,
Thus the bright dawn is followed by night profound

18. Thus glory is slighted though hymned and graced,
Thus the pillar is scorned though firm its base.

19. Thus generosity pure is cast away,
As intentions fly on wings garlanded and gay.

20. Were not those swords obedient yesterday,
To his command on the field of fray?

21. Was there no desperate clasp of fate,
Those days adorned that we celebrate?

22. Was there no death in the tip of his lance?
No foe brought down as the ranks advance?

23. Are not the knights abashed at his bane,
Though arrayed in order, their effort in vain?

24. And glory and courage and height, are they not stirred,
Though the keen blades have not stirred?

25. Was he not protected in the swirling throng,
Like the pupil of the eye from wrong?

26. When he plunged into the deepest melee,
The wings of his brave ranks to repay?

27. Since he scorned escape from the worst that might be,
Was he not shielded by steadfast might?

28. Why did time begrudge us this precious boon?
Where can his equal be found too soon?

29. If he has gone, good fortune was his share,
God securing his abundant welfare.