I came to Najaf in searching of the prince
For too long tortured me has Ali’s absence
* * *
I came to the land of zeal and honour
The kingdom where Ali’s the king and leader
Where each man says in pride, “my prince is Haider”
And all are in awe of Ali’s brilliance
* * *
I returned missing the scent of Najaf’s dust
Air that quenches the lover of Ali’s thirst
The thirst to see Ali, into tears I burst
How long I’ve longed for my beloved’s presence
* * *
I came greeted as if I was family
As the tears in my eyes cries out “finally!”
A stranger welcomed by the sons of Ali
Najaf perfumed me within Ali’s fragrance
* * *
I came bringing the tears within which I’d drowned
I’ve walked in a desert and water I’ve found
I was a servant, now a king I’ve been crowned
Lost, but with the prince Ali I found guidance
* * *
Broken, I stood alone at the lion’s door
The prince of believers my eye would adore
And in the love of Ali my tears would pour
I’d speak to my beloved in words of silence
* * *
You’re in my heart, but from my eyes you’re absent
My eyes dream of seeing your grave and lament
When in Najaf, I cherish every moment
For when I leave Ali, tortures me, patience
* * *
(London – 29/04/13)