إذا غامرت في شرف مروم

Poem Translation:

When in pursuit of honor you engage,
Do not content yourself with lesser wage.
For death’s embrace in trifles, small and slight,
Is just the same as in a grander fight.
My horse and steed will mourn with tears that flow,
Like torrents from their bodies’ core they grow.
They approached the fire, then rose within,
Like maidens in their pleasure, pure and thin.
They parted from their swords, set free,
With hands that bore the wounds of bravery.
The coward deems his weakness wise,
A trick of nature’s mean disguise.
For valor in a man is rich and prime,
But wiser yet, when wisdom’s in its prime.
Many criticize a truth that’s clear,
Their fault, a mind that’s dull and sheer.
Yet ears will take from what they hear,
In measure to their wit and learned sphere.

Poem Explanation:

The poem emphasizes the pursuit of lofty goals and the refusal to settle for less. It highlights that the taste of death is the same whether for trivial or grand causes. The poet portrays the deep sorrow of warriors who part from their beloved swords, likening their tears to torrents flowing from their bodies. The poem criticizes cowards who consider their cowardice as wisdom, revealing it as a deceit of a vile nature. It praises courage, particularly when combined with wisdom. The poet also notes that true statements can be criticized due to poor understanding, and that listeners’ comprehension depends on their intelligence and knowledge.