Priaulx Rainier: Three Greek Epigrams (The Lied and Art Song Texts Page: Texts and Translations to Lieder, mélodies, canzoni, and other classical vocal music)


You will never rise up again 
with a flutter of thick wings 
and rouse me from my bed in the morning. 
For a thief came silently 
upon you in your sleep and killed you, 
pressing his finger into your throat.

2. For a fountain

Language: English

Authorship

Richard Aldington (né Edward Godfree Aldington) (1892-1962)

Based on

text

Anyte of Tegea (fl. early 3^rd century BCE)


O wanderer, rest your tired limbs under this elm. 
The breeze murmurs in the light green branches; 
Drink a cool draught from the spring. 
This restingplace is dear to wayfarers in the hot summer.

3. A dolphin

Language: English

Authorship

Richard Aldington (né Edward Godfree Aldington) (1892-1962)

Based on

text

Anyte of Tegea (fl. early 3^rd century BCE)


No more exulting in the calm sea
shall I rise from the depths 
and thrust through the waves; 
No more shall I rush 
past the beautiful prow of a fair rowlocked ship 
delighting in my image on the figurehead. 
The dark waters of the sea dashed me to land, 
and I lie here upon this narrow shore.