Classical Poetry

Propertius (fragment 8b)

Translated by Max Latham B.A. (Hons.) Classical Studies

Here she'll be! To stay here she swore truly!
By having to break through adversity!
We've won: with not letting those feelings show,
Good wishes, by each others side constantly.
May she set aside the eager envy,
Deceitful desires although,
My dear Cynthia stood firm:
To go on new journeys proceed.
As far as I'm concerned both dearest Rome
Be'ng said and less me deny that sweet throne.
That perhaps a short stay in bed with me,
And wheresoever I would prefer just thee,
Which himself be'ng endowed with those riches
And Hippodam's ancient Kingdom Elis,
Before they prepare with horses.
However dear was his devotion,
However much greater a man will grant,
Nevertheless 't is not yet that she flees
From my eager desires of the heart.
I hath not this gold,
Nor with Indian pearls to persuade thee,
But to indulge: I've pleasant poetry.
They're therefore from love, a Muse, not a dull mind,
Anything from Apollo, love trust I,
Oh rare Cynthia: she is mine!
Now I may with feet touch the highest sky,
Whether day or night'll have come, that she's mine!
For me, not a rival in love, 't is sure,
The secret love affairs she takes away,
My, may he know such, that fellow of yours
From the hoary grey-haired glory: old age.