Erotica Romana by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
page 8 of 44 (18%)
page 8 of 44 (18%)
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Gods of all peoples and tribes, over the whole world, a home--
May the Egyptian, black and austere out of primeval basalt, Or from the marble a Greek, form them charming and white-- Yet the eternal ones do not object to particularism (Incense of most precious sort, strewn for just one of their host). Therefore we gladly confess to singling a special immortal And our devotions each day pledging but solely to her. Mischievous celebrants we at these mysteries gay, and so solemn: Silence exactly befits rites at which we're adepts. Rather onto our heels by horrible deeds the Erinyes We would allure, even Zeus' punishment sooner we'd dare-- Under that rock, or bound to a tumbling wheel we'd endure it-- Than we'd withdraw our hearts from the delights of her cult. Sweet Opportunity, that is her name. You should meet her. Often will she turn up, ever in a new form. |
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