Stages of Life by Eige Aw Ali [ Kolba Heer - Cige Aw Ali]

[Northern Swordsman]

I translated this short poem by Cige Aw Cali because it fascinated me and I've been reading some somali literature. It might not be the best translation but enjoy reading and if you can translate it better than me feel free to do so.



Kolba Heer by Cige Aw Cali

Markii hore Candhuuf baan ahaa Caano oo kale'e

Markii xigey Casaan Dhiigahoo Cad iyo Jiidh yeeshay

Markii xigey Calooshii Haween yaan ku cararaayey

Markii xigey caweys baan dhashoo Cige la ii bixiyey

Markii xigey culays hooyaday Cududahaan daashey

Markii xigey Cuudkaan ceshoo caawiye ahaaday

Markii xigey cayaar baan tego cayn walba u boodey

Markii xigey Cawaa lay dhisoon Cawda kula loolay

Markii xigey Caruur dhawr ah baa culuq naloo siiyey

Markii xigey Caqlaa ii kordhoon Eebbe ka cabsooday

Iminkana Cirraan yeeshayoo Coomir baan ahaye

Allahayoow Cadaabta iga hay caaddil baad tahaye.

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Stages of life - Eige Aw Ali

At first I was like a spit similar to milk,
then I was like red meat that became skin
then I was walking around in a woman's womb,
then I was born at dawn and was named Eige,
then my mom's limbs hurt, because of my weight,
then I gained wealth and became a supporter,
then I went for play and jumped around in all ways (possible),
then a house has been built for me and I laid around with my Awa,
then some children have been granted to me,
then I became wiser and became God conscious,
and now I've got grey hair and have become an old man
O Allah keep the punishment away from me, because you're the most Just.

 

[killerxsmoke]

When was the guy alive for?

 

[Northern Swordsman]

When was the guy alive for?

Around 1940-50

 

[DubatDiaries]

I love Somali poetry but the language they use can be difficult. How did you learn the language like this?

 

[Northern Swordsman]

I love Somali poetry but the language they use can be difficult. How did you learn the language like this?

To be honest my father used to teach us Suugaan and the somali language and encouraged us to learn it and ask questions if we didn't know words etc. It all led down to me being interested in Suugaan (somali literature) and at times I just read and tried my best to grasp it because most of the poetry is written in advanced language and rarely used words.

 

[DubatDiaries]

That's a blessing, may Allah bless your father. I look forward to reading more of your translated Somali literature posts.

 

[Northern Swordsman]

Thank you and Amin.