1. When will I traverse the palace halls while
The eyes of a man seeking glory observe me?

2. When will I see the crescent moon of the council rising
With fortune like Bahram's, nay, with Bahram's own kingdom?

3. When will I kiss a carpet never kissed
By one tranquil, who parts dust from poison?

4. Why do I sleep in Shiraz and wake still
In my house, though I would ransom my waking, my sleep, and my dreams?

5. What my heart seeks, it tosses about;
I have enough sickness to serve its pains.

6. I've come to thank the night for bemoaning the day—
The night assists me, while the days show enmity.

7. And the earth knows I will one day wipe it away
Until I see one who sees, by night, my fantasies.