print previewback NONNUS OF PANOPOLIS
translation from Homeric Greek by Denise Low
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The (Vainglorious) Son
Proceeds
Phaëthon’s eyes blazed. He flailed the whip
across the horses’ necks, maddening them
out of their usual course, the Zodiac’s path.
Boundaries of north and south broke apart.
Hot and cold winds tangled into whirlwinds.
The goaded horses ran wildly in all directions.
“Stop this,” Morning Star warned Phaëthon.
“Quit lashing the Sun’s steeds. Beware
the constellations’ killing powers unleashed.
“Orion the Hunter’s knife can slash you.
Boötes’ oxen team can trample you.
Archer’s fire-tipped arrow can pierce you.”
Yet as the Morning Star spoke, Phaëthon
pushed his team faster and faster until finally
the very center axle of Heaven cracked.
Contributor’s notes: Nonnus Of Panopolis
Contributor’s notes: Denise Low