Unveiling the Lyrical Legacy of Sappho: Poems and Fragments of Sappho by Penguin Classics

Descend into the Lyrical Realm of Ancient Greece

In the tapestry of ancient Greek literature, one name stands out as a beacon of lyrical brilliance: Sappho. Her enigmatic verses have captivated readers for centuries, offering glimpses into the depths of human emotion and desire.

Stung with Love: Poems and Fragments of Sappho (Penguin Classics)

by Sappho

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Language	:	English
File size	:	2786 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	95 pages
Paperback	:	80 pages
Item Weight	:	4.3 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.19 x 9 inches

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Now, Penguin Classics presents a captivating new edition of Poems and Fragments of Sappho, meticulously edited and translated by eminent classicist and translator Anne Carson. This comprehensive volume brings together the surviving fragments of Sappho's lost works, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the exquisite beauty and timeless allure of her poetry.

Exploring the Fragments of a Lost Treasure

Sappho's life and work remain shrouded in mystery. Born on the island of Lesbos in the 6th century BCE, she established a renowned circle of female companions known as the "thiasos." It is within this intimate circle that much of her poetry is believed to have been composed.

Over the centuries, the vast majority of Sappho's writings have been lost, leaving behind only scattered fragments. These fragments are tantalizing glimpses into the world of a remarkable poet, revealing her multifaceted emotions and profound insights into love, longing, and the human condition.

A Lyrical Odyssey of Love and Longing

At the heart of Sappho's poetry lies the exploration of love in all its forms. Her verses capture the intensity of romantic passion, the bittersweet pangs of unrequited love, and the enduring bonds of female friendship.

"Come to me, let us break bread together, you and I," Sappho writes in one fragment, her words evoking the intimacy and shared experiences of her female companions.

Yet, it is in her love poems that Sappho's lyrical genius truly shines. Her passionate and sensual language expresses the longing, desire, and vulnerability of the human heart with breathtaking clarity:

<em>He seems to me equal to the gods, that man who sits opposite you, and listens close to your sweet speaking, and lovely laughter, which makes my heart pound in my chest.</em>

A Pioneering Voice in Lesbian Poetry

Sappho's poetry has also been celebrated for its open and unapologetic exploration of lesbian desire. Her verses break free from societal norms, celebrating the beauty and power of female love.

In her famous "Ode to Aphrodite," Sappho invokes the goddess of love to lend her aid in matters of the heart:

<em>Come to me, my queen, who are called Aphrodite, trickster in gold, I beg you, do not crush my spirit, do not break my will with wasting pain.</em>

The Enduring Legacy of a Poetic Master

Despite the fragmentary nature of her work, Sappho's influence on Western literature has been profound. Her lyrical brilliance and exploration of universal themes have inspired generations of poets and writers.

From Plato to Ovid, from Catullus to Virginia Woolf, Sappho's verses have echoed through the ages, shaping the literary landscape and influencing our understanding of love, desire, and the human experience.

In Poems and Fragments of Sappho, Penguin Classics offers a definitive edition of Sappho's surviving works, providing readers with an unparalleled opportunity to encounter the enduring legacy of one of the greatest poets of antiquity.

About the Translator: Anne Carson

Anne Carson is an acclaimed poet, essayist, and translator. Her translations of ancient Greek poetry have been widely praised for their originality, insight, and lyrical brilliance.

Carson's translation of Poems and Fragments of Sappho is a testament to her deep understanding and appreciation of Sappho's work. Her masterful rendering of Sappho's fragments brings these ancient verses to life, allowing contemporary readers to connect with their timeless power and beauty.