1. Should I not ask how time's vicissitudes
Have made our fortunes change, and brought dismay?

2. They, from the water debarred, give drink to thirst,
While we must water on Al-Ahsa's sand our beasts.

3. In every quarter are men puffed with pride,
While we are most abased and driven forth as prey.

4. When Banu Al-Hisn lost their riding-camels, look,
Men must go naked of their robes today.

5. Abu Salma, Sufyan - when the lutes were silenced
And turned against us - we were left with no one.