1. I have risen above the people of my time in my solitude,
And left no friend among men to come to my aid,

2. For since I tested those I thought were friends,
I have thought about my days of ease and hardship,

3. And called out among the living, “Is there anyone to help me?”
But found among them none but chatterers and mutes,

4. Excusers, doubters, sullen faces, and pale.
How often did I aid them when help was late!

5. Yet when misfortune struck me I saw none but those who rejoiced,
And when good fortune came to me I saw none but the envious.