Sol 5.6

  1. White in hue, with trailing, gossamer robes,

    mantles woven by December and January lie upon it.

  2. Whoever beholds it says, “Glory be to its Creator!

    How has it alone laid claim to such beauty?”

  3. It comes visiting before the blossoms have opened their bud-sheaths,

    with no appointed time announced for its visit.

  4. It is like a scout, or one ascending the uplands,

    or a commander with the many kinds of blossoms as his troops.

  5. The peach tree imitates it in the beauty of its bloom—

    O people, even among the trees there are enviers!

  6. A blossom that alone has carried off the racecourse prize,

    just as ʿAbbād has carried off the trophies of victory:

  7. he who charges the cavalry head-on while lances are leveled at him,

    the sword bared and the spear bending;

  8. and who, in generosity, kindles the beacon-fire for guests when

    every sought-for resource has run dry, and baggage and provisions have dwindled.

Sol 5.6