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