1. They say Abu Hafs is a fool in need of blows,
He didn't marry a youthful bride in the prime of life,

2. Swaying like a moist branch,
Until he reached a state,

3. Where weakness and livelihood come together,
He married an old woman, especially at such a difficult time!

4. When he was most in need of a provider,
Who could help him, he came with propriety,

5. In addition to his dependents, he took a wife,
Oh what a calamity upon calamity!

6. He bears burdens while he is burdened by her,
More burdens! Oh what an ordeal!

7. So I said, do not hastily blame our elder,
With disapproval, rebuke and reproach,

8. Perhaps what you reckon of his affairs,
And her affairs are the opposite and changed,

9. It is she who grazes in his livelihood,
So pay heed, o heedless heart!

10. The likes of him whose affairs went badly,
Never! The elder is clever.

11. When he saw his pens had become,
Grazing the gardens of fertility and barrenness,

12. The poor man married Laila,
Through her he came upon comfort and prosperity,

13. She toils for the elder on all fours,
Bending forward and sideways,

14. Her head never ceases to hang low,
Lowering it to the place of prostration,

15. So whoever sees the likes of Abu Hafs,
Insulting or the likes of me praising,

16. I defend him with his excuses,
While he spins poetry insulting me.