1. The eye sheds tears, and the heart melts away;

    Passion comes near, while consolation departs.

  2. For want of generous souls, you are neglected;

    And amid the multitude of fools, you are a stranger.

  3. By God, the means to wealth have passed you by

    Only because you are discerning and cultivated.

  4. So be patient: this consoles you for not attaining wealth—

    That no bright, highborn noble ever attains it.

  5. They faulted my frown when my quest proved unattainable—

    Have you ever seen a full moon without a frown?

  6. And they faulted my body's pallor from journeying all night—

    Is there any crescent moon that is not pale?

  7. Indeed, this attests the perfection of my honor:

    That I am beloved by every generous heart.

  8. And this has dispelled my grief and relieved my anguish:

    That the ignoble man is distressed at the sight of me.

  9. Do not trifle: among those watching you there is a pursuer;

    And what a wonder—a player who is himself pursued!

Sol 5.6