The Reply
The main theme of the poem is enshrined in this long stanza specifically between 63-113 where As-Sahili replies Abubakar of his satric poem. The subject matter of the retort is negligence and short comings which the poet considers as true and accurate but beams that the (Abubakar) is not only engrossed in negligence but also drowned in it. The simple diction and skillful presentation of the poem makes it commendable to human thinking.
As-Sahili opens the stanza with confrontation telling his enthusiast that he needs advice more direly than him only if he could reflect on his deeds. The Prophet (SAW) said: "The religion is sincerity: we said: to whom? He replied to Allah and His book and to His messenger and to the leaders of the Muslims and their common folks. (Muslim related it)"³⁷

Therefore, the poet sees his advice as a religion which Abubakar is indeed lacking. He warns Abubakar that they are both of the same misconduct. The poet claims Abubakar is prey more negligent that him which in turn sow seed of forgetfulness in his mind about his death. Had he not been careless, he would have used his youth to strive in the course of Allah and comfortably laid on his bed in his old age to meet his lord.
The poet ponders how his (Abubakar) conditions in old age could be so deteriorated if he had made judiciously use and guide his youth.

The poet laments how he spent his youth age when he missed vital opportunities which would have better of his life notwithstanding that, he remains undaunted and resilient that he can boast of his achievement in spite of all odds. He makes silly mockery of his counterpart who had all the opportunities at his disposal but could not take time by fore lock. it is a shame that

....................................................................
37. Reported by Muslim 1196