1. If I say that nearness cures lovesickness,
The heart refuses but to yearn more.

2. And if I feign indifference,
My passion betrays manners contrived.

3. How many nights rekindle my love,
When lightning flickers over Yemen and ignites.

4. I bid my glance to linger on you,
And stay my tears from flowing.

5. Lest a slanderer wounds our love with his words,
Nay, our love thrives and blossoms!

6. At dawn, we defend our affection from enemies
And prevent its edges from tearing.

7. You are but the arrow that kissed its notch,
And I, the bow that collided with the target.

8. If you are my intimate friend,
Then staying with you is enough, without you I have no permanence.

9. We came together, heedless of passion’s work,
Fearing the days would make us part.