Love coming on too strong

does not give glory or virtue

to men. But if Kypris comes in moderation, 630

no other goddess is so gracious.

Never, oh goddess, may you let fly at me an inescapable arrow

from your golden bow, drenching it in desire.

But let soundness of mind love me, 635

the finest gift of the gods.

Never may dreaded Kypris hit me with quarrelsome angers

and insatiable strife,

after stinging my heart for another bed,

the loves of women.10

O fatherland, o home,

may I not be cityless,

leading a life of helplessness, 645

hard to get through,

full of most pitiable sorrows.

By death, by death may I be subdued

before reaching that day;

of troubles there is no other beyond 650

separation from one's native land.

I have seen it, I do not have this story

to reflect upon from others;

no city, no friend 655

pities you, suffering

the most terrible of sufferings.

Without grace may he perish for whom

it is possible not to honor loved ones 660

unbolting his heart in pure love.

He will never be a friend of mine.

10. Wisely may the goddess of love judge women’s marriages, respecting those without strife... (after Page). Return to Medea