«اِلنَّاقَه الْعَوِيلَهْ سَلَبِتْهَا طَوِيلَهْ»

The picture is of a weak, thin she-camel that is tied with a long rope. The rope's length is not what matters here: it gives the animal no strength and does nothing to change its poor condition.

Turned toward people, the image fits someone held back by their situation or by little resolve who tries to complete themselves with extras that bring no real gain, so the shortfall remains. It is a criticism, not praise for resourcefulness.

Fits a remark about someone who, falling short in means or drive, tries to round themselves out with additions that serve no real purpose. Aim it at the compensating behavior itself, keeping the camel and rope as an image rather than a literal observation.