1. I'm disturbed when old age appears in you,
Though it's strange you're surprised by my love.

2. The living avoid those who rouse them
To the panic of riding off in haste.

3. Umm Qays's companions shun me,
And would mourn me if I passed away.

4. And which young man have you known, when you meet,
Who makes excuses with a mournful song?

5. If the abode becomes distant, I've shown you
That your dwelling is near at hand.

6. Perhaps God will return you to us
And destroy your wealth in a year or two.

7. I saw you, wise one, grayness upon you,
Yet your patience does not again don youth.

8. And I've disliked reprimanding Amr,
Though rebukes and sins have multiplied.

9. I wished that I might die—but where is one like me
For your people when the tribes split apart?

10. I've cracked the rock of those who pelt you,
And I may be pelted with smooth stones.

11. It has severed iron—so do not resist,
A blade that neither chips nor melts.

12. You forget the woe of others in my affliction—
Nights that do not gently turn for you.

13. For the living have grown angry at you,
As I stand behind them, angry.