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Gods and Mortals: Modern Poems on Classical Myths

Denzel Hayes

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The classical myths of Greece and Rome have long fascinated poets, providing a rich source of inspiration for their work. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in these myths, as poets have sought to explore their timeless themes of love, loss, betrayal, and heroism.

The poems in this collection offer a fresh and contemporary take on the classical myths. They reimagine the familiar stories from the perspectives of both gods and mortals, exploring the complex relationships between these two groups. The poems are written in a variety of styles, from traditional forms to free verse, and they reflect the diverse voices of poets from around the world.

Gods and Mortals: Modern Poems on Classical Myths

by Nina Kossman

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	902 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	315 pages
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The first poem in the collection, "The Fall of Icarus," by Billy Collins, tells the story of the young boy who flew too close to the sun. Collins's poem captures the Icarus's sense of wonder and excitement as he takes flight, as well as the inevitable tragedy that follows. The poem ends with a haunting image of Icarus's father, Daedalus, searching for his son's body in the sea.

In "The Rape of Persephone," by Carol Ann Duffy, the poet explores the myth of the young goddess who is abducted by Hades, the god of the underworld. Duffy's poem is a powerful and moving account of Persephone's experience, as she is torn from her mother and forced to live in the dark and gloomy underworld. The poem also explores the complex relationship between Persephone and Hades, as she gradually comes to terms with her fate and finds a measure of happiness in the underworld.

The third poem in the collection, "The Odyssey," by Derek Walcott, is a long and ambitious work that retells the epic journey of Odysseus. Walcott's poem is a masterpiece of modern poetry, and it offers a unique and personal interpretation of the classical myth. The poem is written in a variety of styles, from traditional forms to free verse, and it reflects the diverse voices of the many characters who appear in the story.

The poems in this collection are just a few examples of the many ways that poets have explored the classical myths in recent years. These poems offer a fresh and contemporary take on the timeless stories of gods and mortals, providing new insights into the human condition.