Aphrodite's Grotto

Ode to Aphrodite I

Sappho

translated by John Luo

Leave ancient Crete and come to our temple,

To our grove of fragrant trees,

Where the swirling mist of frankincense

Intoxicates the senses,

And shadows dapple the fruitful earth;

Where the cooling waters bubble

And dance on down through the sylvan meadows,

To where the horses graze.

See, in the meadows our horses graze

Among the distant trees,

Where blossom hangs on all the branches,

The ornament of Spring.

The scent of dill is in the air,

And roses shade the bower,

The cool and fragrant resting place,

Where we lie half asleep.

Queen! Cyprian! Aphrodite!

Bring nectar in golden goblets,

And stir into the heady draught

Your powerful magic potion

So we may drink and taste and prove

The sweet Delights of Love.

Blessed Be from the Tree,
Willow
willowharvestmoon@gmail.com