1. I sleep but my mind stays awake. Whenever
Sorrow overwhelms me, it lulls me with my dreams.

2. The beloved specter did not visit me, rather
The specter of agony afflicted me with anguish.

3. I cannot forget a dream that startled me with a scene
In front of the customary council sentencing me to death.

4. I stood while death’s palm slapped my cheek
With my future behind me and my past ahead.

5. When the executioner came to tighten his rope
Around my neck as the night cloaked my darkness,

6. I took one last look at Lebanon
And sealed with it the hopes and pains of my soul.

7. But I awoke while the specter lingered
Before my eyes, among my family and paternal uncles.

8. If only that dream had been real
And my sleep had lasted the length of my days.