a point arose about this is not poetry

[rayheinrich]

Do you think the Sufi made up tales about poets?

At some point in time, the Emir got it into his head that he was a poet.
After working for many days and nights, he completed a poem
and asked a turtle, if he would come to the recital. The turtle, of course,
could not refuse.

After the Emir had completed reciting the poem, he asked the turtle
for his opinion. "Are you sure, Sir?" asked the turtle, cautiously.
Oblivious, the Emir said, "Of course, that's why I brought you here!"
"All right then," the turtle replied, "If it pleases Your Lordship, it's terrible."

Obviously angered, the Emir called out "Guards! Put this reptile in prison."
Turning to the turtle, he said, "Thirty days," and walked out in a huff.

Shortly after the turtle had completed his sentence, the Emir called upon
him to attend a recital of another poem. When the Emir finished reciting,
the turtle immediately rose to his feet and started for the door.

"Where are you going, turtle?" the Emir asked, surprised.
"To the prison, sir."