The Poetry Corner

The Trial

By Nizar Qabbani

The East receives my songs, some praise, some curse To each of them my gratitude I bear For I've avenged the blood of each slain woman and haven offered her who is in fear. Woman's rebellious heart I have supported ready to pay the price, content to die if love should slay me, for I am love's champion and if I ceased, then I would not be I.