Monday, August 29, 2016

Arabic Poem

Here is an Arabic Poem in translation.

Feelings are universal after all!

al-Khansa


LAMENT FOR MY BROTHER

What have we done to you, death
that you treat us so,
with always another catch
one day a warrior
the next a head of state;
charmed by the loyal
you choose the best.
Iniquitous, unequalling death
I would not complain
if you were just
but you take the worthy
leaving fools for us.

Fifty years among us
upholding rights
annulling wrongs,
impatient death
could you not wait
              a little longer.
He still would be here
and mine, a brother
without a flaw. Peace
be upon him and Spring
rains water his tomb
              but
could you not wait
              a little longer
              a little longer,
you came too soon.

Translated by Omar Pound

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