Would it mean anything to me if I held the canopy,
Honoring with an outward showing of dignity,
Or if I put down the foundations to ever-lasting monuments,
Which prove to be more short-lived than waste itself or ruin?
Have I not seen those who live for beauty and favor
Lose everything and more by spending too much
On lavish, sweet things instead of simple flavors,
Those pitiful spenders, who spend too much by looking?
No, let me be obedient in your heart,
And take my simple but free offering,
Which is unadulterated and undeceiving,
In return I can only offer what is mine for what is yours.
Go away, you false witnesses! A true soul,
Even when accused of terrible things, is least in your power.