Sol 6.1

  1. A passing phantom revisited my eyes by night,

    of a cruel woman who came in the darkness.

  2. A vision of her took shape, traveling by night,

    and so steals my reason with that dream.

  3. So whatever I forget, I never forget her approach,

    swaying with a bough watered by gentle, steady rains.

  4. And she appeared like the full moon of night,

    which rose high in the sky and grew full.

  5. On her head was a blue veil,

    and around her neck, a string of acacia fruits.

  6. She did not keep watch for the watcher's appearance,

    nor feel abashed at the attendants' appearance.

  7. You have indeed saddened me, O thread of joy,

    and made me ill, O cure for sickness.

  8. Is this a visit, or a turning away?

    And your visit—is it pain, or is it not?

  9. And a day like a bride's robe,

    in beauty and fragrance whenever it is smelled—

  10. I cast off my bridle and offered no apology,

    nor showed deference that day to those held in awe.

  11. And that day I matched the north wind's freshness

    with clear wine and plaintive melodies.

  12. May my life be your ransom! This winter

    has assailed us with its might.

  13. And not a dirham remains of my wealth,

    nor anything of my clothes but tatters.

  14. A breath of air leaves its mark on them,

    and fancy's hidden stirrings pluck them away.

  15. And you are the pillar of support, and we the seekers of bounty;

    and you are the chief, and we the servants.

Sol 6.1