OF THE DEATH OF THE POET AL-MUTANABBI(915-965)

Words can turn into slashing swords,

and your sharp word

can turn out to be the lesser blade,

so if near Baghdad they challenge you

think twice before drawing sword

and charging, think twice

before working your words

like a sword-master his art.

Living up to words

with swords can leave

your blood drying on desert sand.

11.08.2019