Sparta

GREEK POEMS OF THE 20th CENTURY

Anghelos Sikelianos

SPARTA

"As if from ambush now for a long time

I've held you in my eye, and from all others

have chosen you as if you were a star;

your countenance has gratified my heart.

Hearken; now let me tightly grasp your hand,

for youth is like a stallion thus subdued;

for one night only shall you lie upon

my bed, and be my own wife's counterpart.

Go; she is small in waist and as compact

in beauty as majestic Helen was;

and fill her generously with your seed.

For one night take her in your strong embrace,

and then uplift my desolate old age

before all Sparta with a worthy son."