Classic Poem

Splendor-enthroned, divine Aphrodite,
Daughter of Zeus, wily weaver of snares,
Crush me not, goddess, with agony mighty;
Hear these my prayers.

Haste now, if ever thy heart has grown tender
When I have called to thee, calling afar;
Come now, as erst, from the home of thy splendor,
Yoking thy car.

Fair are thy sparrows, with well plumèd pinions,
Fleetly all round the dark planet they flew,
Whirling thee swift through the azure dominions,
Out of the blue.

Sudden they brought thee, but thou, O Divinest,
Smiling, with countenance lovely for aye,
Spak'st to me, saidst to me: “Daughter, why pinest?
What dost thou pray?

“Tell me thy frenzied heart's fieriest longing.
Yearnest some love-luring charm to possess?
Who hath neglected thee, who hath been wronging?
Sappho, confess.

“For if he fly, he shall seek thee in anguish.
Scorns he thy gifts? He shall offer his own.
Scorns he thy love? He shall soon for it languish,
Though it be flown.”

Speed to me now, goddess, loose me from sorrow;
Grant my fierce yearnings fruition and end.
Thou art all potent; thy strength would I borrow.
Oh! be my friend.