1. The gazelles protect them, and the slender wrists are prey,
Some are white, some are dark,

2. Though their glances promise sharp swords,
Their eyelids and tender glances are sheathed blades.

3. No body but is aimed at by bright swords,
No heart but is sought by glances.

4. The lightnings and thunders are not storms
unleashed at them, but their shining teeth.

5. Nor jealousy drove me from them,
Nor blame and chiding;

6. But to complain to her I love
Though estrangement bars my way, and spies;

7. Was that garden plucked from those beauties?
Or that pool from the kisses I tasted?

8. Will the springtide of my youth return to me?
Will my loved ones come back?

9. Affection is debarred in the arms of constancy,
And the troth of early life is broken.

10. Yet am I submissive, enamoured,
Though my tears furrow my cheeks.

11. The white swords and spears incline away in fear
And twist in their wrists.

12. My foes exact vengeance for their ire,
And drive me with the docile cows;

13. And eyes glance at me, and glance away,
Speak then, of the flash of the sword, while the sword is sheathed!