Sirens' Song

Sirens’ Song (Homer)

Wonder thrives here!  Wise and wiley, prized Odysseus,

Great glory of the Achaians, Avast!  Set your ship,

Here, by our place, where you can hear our wonderful words.

For up to now, not one blackened ship has driven by

Who has not at least heard our melodious voices

And did not steer cheering to our shore to know much more.

For let us tell you, we knew all that was great in Troy,

We knew of the toil for the goddesses’ desires;

We knew this, and we know all that is borne, that passes

Upon the jagged face of this all nourishing Earth.

(Odyssey XII.184-191)