Star of poetry is one of Charbel Baini's books translated from Arabic into English. Introduction by Dr. Mostapha Helwe

Rabat


Here I come, sweet Morocco, rejoice!

O poetry, be joyful like the refreshing air!

I courted beloved cities within it,

I confided a secret to them... 

My eyes might betray me.

This is Rabat, the love of a devoted heart.

I swear to God, Rabat, search for me!

I sang your glory in all the lands of exile.

I kept you awake through the days... 

Spread your name upon my heart.

I loved your name... 

And the letters are witnesses.

I extended my hand so that you might inscribe it.

Do not look at my face, for I am weeping.

These are the harbingers of my joy, 

Do not be ashamed.

A house, white, its colour enchanted me.

Uncover its origin, O sun, with light.

And the axe, like a diamond, 

Shone with brilliance.

And the diamond, a symbol of glory, 

Will not be bribed.

A throne upon which the kingdom springs. 

A virtue,

I run towards it like thirsty earth

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