Sol 6.1

  1. I used to complain of Hind's coyness and defy

    A reprover of my passion and a sincere adviser.

  2. Then my love for her ended, and a time came

    That demanded its due from me outright.

  3. And my companions spoke up, saying, “Strive

    To earn a living, if you are free and capable.

  4. Our wealth is forbidden to you,

    And we deem shortcomings in an able man shameful.”

  5. So I made ready; the more I drew my nature

    Toward money, the more it turned away from it.

  6. Then I returned to my love for Hind, but it did not find

    A spacious place for itself within my heart.

  7. What ails my heart, though my youth has not passed?

    After such softness, it has grown unruly.

  8. Have I exchanged my art for another art,

    Or exchanged my soul for another soul?

  9. The morning draught is still sweetest to the taste,

    And Hind's face still lovely and radiant.

  10. I used to seek love's help in bearing life;

    So who will bring it to me, that I may rest?

  11. I am content with it, and I do not know

    Whether it leaves me ailing or sound.

  12. Love is better for a man of letters than making a living

    By flattering a wealthy miser.

Sol 6.1