1. They said, "Why not build a house
Whose beauty astounds houses?"

2. I said, "That is not wise -
Great waste for one who dies."

3. Were it not for winter's cold,
Searing summer's blaze,

4. Fear of thieves, need for food,
Women seeking shelter -

5. I'd build a flimsy house of spiderwebs.
What good is a beautiful song

6. For one with no firm roots?
Had we heeded the grave's warning -

7. The mute counselor's lesson -
It whispers to the arrogant rider -

8. "You've no power over my bed;
You forgot my day, my long sleep -

9. You'll be forgotten as you forgot."
Oh you who demolished palaces

10. Where you enjoyed yourself freely -
Embracing the beautiful women within,

11. Inhaling their delicate scents -
You drag the train of youth and play

12. With charming companions.
Remember my resting place, make way

13. Before it's too late.
Soon you'll be my food -