I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised by how humorous this book turned out to be.

The humor stems from multiple sources. Firstly, the poems themselves display a remarkable range of emotions and reveal something truly comical about the Greek lyric poets of the archaic age. Many of these poets hailed from obscure places rather than the well-known cities of the classical ages. For instance, in this approximately 80-page anthology, there is only one Athenian poet, Solon, the renowned lawgiver who played a crucial role in Athens' democratic push.

Secondly, the framing of the book adds to its humor. The translator, a noted classicist, remarks that this book is for those interested in Greek writings but lacking the ability to read Greek, and that those who do know Greek may read it for malicious reasons. While I can understand a writer having such thoughts, actually stating them in a book is quite another matter. Any book written with a sense of humor bordering on paranoia instantly becomes more interesting to me.

The contents of the book fully justify this interest. It includes a diverse and sometimes in-depth selection of lyric poets from the pre-classical Greek-speaking world of the sixth and seventh centuries. This collection features the sardonic poems of Archilochus, as well as works by Callinus, Semonides, Hipponax, Tyrtaeus, Minmermus, Solon, Phocylides, and Xenophanes. Some of these poets I was already familiar with, while others were completely new to me.

After the lyric poets, there are numerous metrical poets represented in this volume. It encompasses early works, anonymous later works, and pieces by Terpander, Alcman, Stesicorus, Ibychus, the famous Sappho, Alcaeus, Anaceron, Praxilla, Corinna, Simonides, some anonymous and amusing drinking songs, and a substantial selection of Pindar's works. Throughout the selections, the author provides valuable notes about the poets, their possible thoughts, the background and legends surrounding them, and how they were immortalized by later generations of Greeks.

Not only is this book a collection of poetry, but it also serves as a worthwhile history of an often overlooked period. As I mentioned earlier, I had prior knowledge of some of these poets. Sappho is famous for her romantic poetry about younger women who married, despite being married herself. Solon's name was familiar to me due to my interest in Greek political history. Pindar, a noted Theban poet, and the rustic Boetia reminded me of my own background as a farmer's son. The other poet I knew before delving into this collection was Archilochus, one of the first poetic celebrities in the Greek world. I was acquainted with his sarcastic poetry through the writings of Victor Davis Hansen, who uses them as a basis for some of his ideas about Greek hoplite and pre-hoplite warfare.

Becoming more familiar with Greek poetry is, in my opinion, a highly beneficial endeavor. Even though these poets may have perspectives vastly different from my own, as a fellow Western writer who writes out of love rather than for wealthy sponsors (although I wouldn't object to making more money from my writing), many of these writers share a similar Nathanish spirit that I encounter in many books. Archilochus, for example, had an unfortunate romance, was a cynical writer, and was an unheroic figure who became a hero posthumously due to his writing skills. At least, that's something of value.

Interesting historical notes are like hidden treasures that offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. They are not only easy to read but also highly quotable, making them a great source of knowledge and entertainment. These notes can cover a wide range of topics, from ancient civilizations to modern history, and can provide insights into the lives, cultures, and events of bygone eras.

For example, did you know that the ancient Egyptians used a form of writing called hieroglyphics? Or that the Great Wall of China was built over a period of more than 2,000 years? These are just a few of the many interesting historical facts that can be found in these notes.

Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for something interesting to read, interesting historical notes are a great choice. They can expand your knowledge, spark your curiosity, and provide you with a new perspective on the world around you.

The translation of those poems can't be exact because some of them are embarrassingly modern. In fact, when we compare the verses of Sappho here to other books of her writings, the difference is disappointingly large.

I'm no expert in Greek poems, but it's a fact that there are much better translations of Sappho available these days.

However, I do appreciate this book for introducing me to so many poets I didn't know before, especially when it comes to "secular" and lesser-known poetry.

Moreover, it's quite interesting to observe how themes such as war, militarism, money, and misogyny have been present throughout human culture since ancient times. These themes are as old as human civilization itself and continue to be relevant in our modern world.

Despite the flaws in the translations, this book still provides a valuable insight into the rich and diverse world of poetry. It allows us to explore different cultures and perspectives, and to gain a deeper understanding of the human experience.

Overall, while the book may not be perfect, it has its merits and is worth reading for anyone interested in poetry and the history of human thought.

Everything has been said about this. There seems to be no new angle or perspective left to explore. However, perhaps we should take a step back and look at it from a different vantage point. Maybe we have overlooked some crucial details or nuances that could shed new light on the matter. It could be that the very thing we thought was obvious is actually more complex than we initially believed. We need to approach this with an open mind and a willingness to reevaluate our assumptions. By doing so, we might discover something entirely new and unexpected. Who knows what hidden gems lie within this seemingly well-trodden topic? It's time to dig deeper and see what else there is to uncover.

Poetry has always been a fascinating art form, capable of expressing the deepest emotions and thoughts in the most beautiful and concise ways. However, much of the poetry from the past has been lost to us, leaving only brief insights into what was once a rich and diverse body of work.

These lost poems may have told stories of love, war, nature, or any number of other themes, but now all we have are fragments and references in other texts. It is a great pity that we cannot experience these works in their entirety, but perhaps the very fact that they are lost makes them all the more intriguing.

Despite the loss, we can still appreciate the power and beauty of poetry through the works that have survived. From the ancient epics of Homer to the modern masterpieces of T.S. Eliot, poetry continues to inspire and move us.

We can also try to imagine what the lost poems might have been like, based on what we know of the poets and the times in which they lived. In this way, we can keep the memory of these lost works alive and continue to explore the rich world of poetry.

Some of these are truly remarkable.

They possess a certain charm and allure that makes them stand out.

Some of the fragments, in fact, are almost on par with the complete poems.

They have the ability to capture a moment, an emotion, or a thought with such precision and beauty.

It's as if these fragments are little gems that sparkle and shine, even in their incomplete state.

One can't help but be impressed by the talent and creativity that went into creating them.

Whether it's a few lines of beautiful prose or a short stanza of poetry, these fragments have the power to move and inspire.

They remind us that sometimes, less is more, and that a single word or phrase can have a profound impact.

Overall, these fragments are a testament to the power of language and the human imagination.

Lattimore's translations of great Greek lyric poetry are truly remarkable. His work has brought the beauty and essence of these ancient poems to a wider audience. Through his careful and skillful translations, he has managed to capture the nuances of the original Greek language and convey them in a way that is accessible and engaging.

The lyric poetry of ancient Greece is known for its emotional depth, vivid imagery, and musicality. Lattimore has been able to preserve these qualities in his translations, making them a joy to read. His translations not only allow us to appreciate the beauty of the poetry itself but also provide us with a window into the culture and society of ancient Greece.

Lattimore's work has had a significant impact on the study and appreciation of Greek lyric poetry. His translations have been widely read and studied by scholars and enthusiasts alike. They have also inspired generations of poets and writers, who have been influenced by the beauty and power of the original poems.

The original article: "The importance of learning English cannot be overemphasized. It is a global language that opens up many opportunities for communication, education, and career advancement."

Expanded version:

The importance of learning English simply cannot be overemphasized. It is truly a global language that holds the key to a plethora of opportunities. In the realm of communication, it enables people from different countries and cultures to connect and understand each other. Whether it's through face-to-face conversations, online chats, or international conferences, English serves as a common medium.

Moreover, in the field of education, a good command of English is essential. It allows students to access a vast amount of knowledge and resources from around the world. Many renowned universities and educational institutions use English as the primary language of instruction.

Finally, when it comes to career advancement, English proficiency can give individuals a significant edge. It is highly valued by employers in various industries, especially those with an international presence. It can open doors to better job opportunities, higher salaries, and the chance to work with people from diverse backgrounds.

Alcman

This is not Aphrodite, but the lewd Love-boy, playing
like a child, running among the flowers, across the do-not-touch-me meadow grass.

No longer can the sweet-calling maiden voices, the sounds of allurement,
bear up my limbs. Oh, how I wish, I wish I could be a seabird
who, with halcyons, skims the surf-flowers of the sea water
with a careless heart, a sea-blue-colored and sacred waterfowl.

Sappho

Come to me from Crete to this holy temple,
Aphrodite. Here is a grove of apple
trees for your delight, and the smoking altars
are fragrant with incense.

Here, cold water rustles down through the apple
branches; all the lawn is beset and darkened
under roses, and, from the leaves that tremble,
the sleep of enchantment
comes descending. Here is a meadow pasture
where the horses graze and with the flowers of springtime
now in blossom, here where the light winds passing blow
in their freshness.

Here in this place, lady of Cyprus, lightly
lifting, lightly pour in the golden goblets
as for those who keep a festival, nectar:
wine for our drinking.

You will die and be still, never shall there be a memory left of you
after this, nor regret when you are gone. You have not touched the flowers
of the Muses, and thus, shadowy still in the domain of Death,
you must drift with a ghost’s fluttering wings, one of the darkened dead.

When we lived all as one, she adored you as
a symbol of some divinity,
Arignóta, delighted in your dancing.

Now she shines among Lydian women as
into the dark when the sun has set
the moon, pale-handed, at last appeareth

making dim all the rest of the stars, and light
spreads afar on the deep, salt sea,
spreading likewise across the flowering cornfields;

and the dew rinses glittering from the sky;
roses spread, and the delicate
antherisk, and the lotus spreads her petals.

So she goes to and fro there, remembering
Atthis and her compassion, sick
the tender mind, and the heart with grief is eaten.

Simonides of Ceos

As when in the winter moons God stills
the weather for a space of fourteen days,
and the winds sleep in the season, and men have named it
sacred to the breeding of the bright halcyon.

• Danae and Perseus

. . . when in the wrought chest
the wind blowing over
and the sea heaving
struck her with fear, her cheeks not dry,
she put her arm over Perseus and spoke: My child
such trouble I have.

And you sleep, your heart is placid;
you dream in the joyless wood;
in the night nailed in bronze,
in the blue dark you lie still and shine.

The salt water that towers above your head
as the wave goes by you
heed not, nor the wind’s voice; you press
your bright face to the red blanket.

If this danger were danger to you,
your small ear would attend my words.

But I tell you: Sleep, my baby, and let the sea sleep, let
our trouble sleep; let some change appear
Zeus father, from you.

This bold word and beyond justice
I speak, I pray you, forgive it me.

*

The works of these ancient poets offer a fascinating glimpse into the emotions, desires, and beliefs of the people of their time. Alcman's description of the Love-boy is both playful and sensual, while Sappho's invocation of Aphrodite is filled with longing and worship. The poem about Danae and Perseus by Simonides of Ceos is a touching portrayal of a mother's love and fear for her child in the face of danger. These poems continue to resonate with readers today, thousands of years after they were written, demonstrating the timeless power of poetry to capture the human experience.

The experience I had was far funnier and more interesting than I had expected.

At first, I was rather skeptical, thinking it would be just another ordinary event. But boy, was I wrong!

As it unfolded, one hilarious incident after another took place. There were moments when I couldn't stop laughing out loud.

The people involved were so full of life and energy, adding to the overall hilarity.

I found myself completely immersed in the fun and excitement.

It was truly a memorable occasion that will stay with me for a long time.

Looking back, I'm so glad I decided to participate.

It goes to show that sometimes, things can turn out to be much better than we anticipate.

And this particular experience will always bring a smile to my face whenever I think about it.

A taste of Archilochus:

"I don't like the towering captain with the spraddly length of leg,

one who swaggers in his lovelocks and cleanshaves beneath the chin.

Give me a man short and squarely set upon his legs, a man

full of heart, not to be shaken from the place he plants his feet."

This shows Archilochus' preference for a certain type of man, not the showy and tall one but the short and sturdy with a strong heart.

"Glaukos, look! The open sea is churning to a wash of waves

deep within. A cloud stands upright over the Gyrean, cape,

signal of a storm, and terror rises from the unforeseen."

Here, Archilochus vividly描绘s a scene of an approaching storm at sea, creating a sense of danger and uncertainty.

"Luxurious in a spray of myrtle, she wore too

the glory of the rose upon her, and her hair

was all a darkness on her shoulders and her back."

This description of a woman is full of beauty and sensuality, with the use of imagery like myrtle and rose.

"Here I lie mournful with desire,

feeble in bitterness of the pain gods inflicted upon me,

struck through the bones with love."

It expresses the intense emotions of love and pain, showing the depth of the poet's feelings.

The only surviving fragment by Callinus, written about the need to "resist the barbaric Cimmerians," according to Richard Lattimore, is an awesome little thing. More to come.

This gives a hint about another poet's work and creates anticipation for what is to follow.

Perhaps I would have enjoyed this concise collection to a greater extent if I had possessed a more comprehensive knowledge of Greek mythology and history.

Nevertheless, it was still an experience that had its share of enjoyable moments as well as some that were rather boring, and this seemed to depend on the individual poet.

The collection presented a diverse range of works, with some poets managing to bring the ancient tales to life in a vivid and engaging manner. Their words painted pictures in my mind, allowing me to envision the gods and heroes and their adventures.

However, there were also times when the poems felt a bit flat or difficult to understand without the necessary background knowledge.

Overall, while it may not have been a perfect read for me, it did offer some glimpses into the rich world of Greek mythology and the art of poetry.