Today’s new poem is the famous first appearance of the saying “carpe diem”, early in Horace’s Odes. It means “seize the day”, doesn’t it? Yes, and so many other possible things that it is ultimately untranslatable. Read more, hear the Latin and follow in English here.
Close to the beginning of Horace’s first book of Odes, this ode is the first in which he develops the theme of carpe diem: spring is lovely, and the right time to sacrifice to the country God Faunus, but time is short and death inevitable. All sombre enough, but this piece has some hidden meanings. Sestius and Horace are probably old acquaintances, and there may be some little jokes here at his expense – along with an implied compliment to Augustus and his readiness to let bygones be bygones. Read more, hear Horace’s poem performed in Latin and follow in English here.
Another war against the Parthians looks in the offing and the outcome of the last one does not reflect well on Roman military pride and moral fibre. An inspiring example is needed. Step forward Regulus, who long ago persuaded the Senate to reject a deal with the Carthaginians which would have saved his own life. Hear the Regulus Ode here.
Here is a selection of poetry about the Gods – in a variety of moods. First, Jupiter, King of the Gods, in the mood for love as Europa’s bull. After Continue Reading
10 October is Fontinalia, the Roman festival of springs and fountains. See Horace’s celebration poem, O Fons Bandusiae, here. Photo by Halcyoon.