Text by Rhodri ap Hywel. Reposted with permission of the author.
Catalina – Laurel Text
A squall came over the river
When the moon was but a sliver
As if Andalusia weeping
Sent her tears to river sleeping
Each bead of shimmering water
The land’s love of golden daughter
Asking all from Mecca to here
To view bright pearl of Calontir
Alqsar gardens in their splendor
Crave her steps so soft and tender
The elegance that in palace dwells
Envies her pace swift as gazelles
Arches and columns sadly stand
Missing those adorned by her hand
They ask caliph to lend his ear
Hear of bright pearl of Calontir
Through flowing pines a wind so soft
Calls those Allah has held aloft
Matsu Caliph the falcon’s sword
With Elena Calipha’s true accord
Ask Their lords and ladies renowned
To list words of justice profound
Spoken by crafters of things so dear
Attest well bright pearl of Calontir
Garlands of laurels she has earned
With flowing skills both taught and learned
We cannot list the gifts bestowed
As lovely as December’s snow
She has increased your kingdom’s worth
As though she brought heaven to earth
They now pronounce for all to hear
Reward due bright pearl of Calontir
Caliph and Calipha both agree
Such gifts must thus rewarded be
Let her be adorned in trappings old
That recognize such brilliant souls
When horses prance and falcons soar
Fifty years since the lions first roared.
Behold forever the leaves so dear
That adorn bright pearl of Calontir
Behold forever the leaves so dear
That adorn bright pearl of Calontir
The Story of Bayad and Riyâd (“hadeeth Bayad to Riyâd”), 13th C., Public domain worldwide
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