In the Old Tavern
The narrator is intent upon getting drunk, but in the bar he hears about a row with a prostitute. Rather than condemning her, he identifies with her whom he's never met. She has perhaps corrupted her body, but the narrator argues that this is nothing compared to the corruption men have performed in their society. So he comes here to get drunk and to forget where he came from. He feels alienated in a place that doesn't speak Arabic, but he's in good company among the drunks and the prostitutes and the others who have stopped believing in lies.
Iv-Letter-Word
In this poem the narrator's tone is angry and full of consternation. He speaks out against the unjust sanctioning of killings, arguing that even the things which he holds most dear seem corrupt in light of this sanction. His purpose is to expose the corruption in order to take back the semblance of goodness which was taken from him by the injustice of his leaders.
Jerusalem Is Arab Nationalism's Bride
Speaking of political redress, the narrator of this poem reduces all the intrigue of the Middle East's quarrel over Jerusalem to Arab nationalism. He sees no glory in the fight. While he and his compatriots mourn the wars, the revolutionary leaders rejoice in their false sense of security over acquiring Jerusalem. The narrator hints, however, that this union may be misleading and treacherous.
The Disavowal
Having lost his son, the narrator pleas with the deceased to remain with him. He feels his age relative to the loss, complaining about how dim his eyes have become and how weak his shoulders are now. He is able to see his son's body, which renews his sense of wellness and wholeness. He loved the young man. In response, he turns to his grandson and offers hope that, being orphaned, he is part of a greater community.
