- English translation
What a miserable visit, calling on people who don't want me: not a hello, not a single 'we missed you.'
- Literal wording
Oh, my going in to those who do not want me: neither greetings nor 'you have been missed.'
- Meaning and lesson
The speaker grieves over having gone to people who never wanted their company; the opening يا is a cry of lament over the visit, not an address to anyone. No greeting is offered, and no one says وحشتوني, the warm phrase hosts use to tell a visitor they were missed. The visit becomes a source of hurt.
More broadly, the saying cautions against forcing one's presence on those who are indifferent. Showing up where affection is lacking brings only neglect and wounded pride. The rhyme of يريدوني with وحشتوني gives the complaint its rhythmic, rueful tone.
- When it is used
Fits a moment when someone recounts or anticipates calling on people who plainly do not welcome them. It voices rueful self-pity or serves as a wry warning against visiting where one is unwanted. Avoid it as a neutral remark about an ordinary visit.
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- Colloquial Arabic
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How this record reached us: Editorially sourced.
Report an issue with this meaning: What a miserable visit, calling on people who don't want me: not a hello, not a single 'we missed you.'