The Poems and Fragments of Catullus / Translated in the Metres of the Original

Name: The Poems and Fragments of Catullus / Translated in the Metres of the Original
Author: Gaius Valerius Catullus

By Gaius Valerius Catullus

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Classics of Literature Poetry

About This Book

A collection presenting the lyric poems and surviving fragments of Catullus rendered into English that imitates the original Latin metres. Short lyrics move between playful eroticism, tender friendship, candid invective, and elegiac mourning, frequently shifting register and tone. The volume pairs the verse translations with a translator's preface explaining metrical principles and the challenges of reproducing classical quantity in English. Readers encounter condensed, varied pieces that emphasize emotional immediacy, formal variety, and the interplay between intimate confession and satirical attack.

About the Author

Gaius Valerius Catullus

Gaius Valerius Catullus was a Roman poet of the late Republic, known for his passionate and often personal poetry. His work, particularly in "The Carmina of Caius Valerius Catullus," showcases a range of emotions from love and desire to bitterness and satire. Catullus is celebrated for his innovative use of language and meter, which influenced later poets. His poems often reflect the complexities of relationships and social commentary, making him a significant figure in the literary heritage of ancient Rome. His candid exploration of themes such as love, friendship, and betrayal continues to resonate with readers today.