I: To this degree is the heart affected by…

To this degree is the heart affected by the love of Layla,
That Majnun, for aye, uttereth the praises of Layla.

He repeated no other lesson whatever, in this world,
Save that, on the black mole, and the ringlets of Layla.

This, unto him, is sleep, from pain and anguish free,
That he be occupied, day and night, with thoughts of Layla.

If, by the sword of anguish, he to death's agonies be brought,
He grieveth not, so that it be in the presence of Layla.

Lovers, that cry out, "Layla! Layla!" and mourn and bewail--
Kill the body, and make it immortal, by the name of Layla.

He desireth grief out of excessive woe, but findeth it not:
The lover is ever happy, in grief and sorrow for Layla.

The whole of his love-pangs will, in a moment, disappear,
When the long sought interview is brought about with Layla.

Draw near, Ahmad Shah! learn thou love from Majnun!
For he is famous, in the world, for his love of Layla.