The water runs rapidly below the ships’ bellies,
screeching noisily against the tar and solid planks.
They swim in it with their bows cutting through the gale,
though if an elephant was driven into it, he’d stop in fear.
The masters may have to take them trough straits where
the waves hit rapidly against the sides, rushing past them
As a herd of camels may be rushed by an astute herder.

Inspired by the poetry of Al-Akhtal – 18-90AH / 640-71CE