Classic Poem

People who go to the shore of the sea with its waves still ask
those who know where water can be found to quench their thirst.
In the same way wise men, though in the company of kings,
will seek out those who are generous and without flaws!
Nor do I think, “What is this worth?” about whatever wages
I gain! With my mind on you I have come here
because I am poor. It is hard for me to beg and say
“Give to me!” Whether you grant me things or not,
I can easily sing of your manhood which is such
that you could never run before weapons thrown in war
and I sing of your mountain, Konkanam of the many cool waterfalls
that descend in their streams close
together from the summit, like the spotless spreading out of a robe!