Horace
Latin · Poetry · Letter Poem · Lyric; Poetry · Satire Poem
5 works · 8,636 aligned sentences
Ut pictura poesis.
Poetry is like a picture.
Ars Poetica 361
Epistles
This work is a philosophical collection of poems in which Horace explores how to attain true happiness and peace of mind (ataraxia) through the format of letters addressed to his friends and patrons. Moving away from conventional genres like epic and love poetry, the author writes to various individuals, including his patron Maecenas and Emperor Augustus, in an intimate and occasionally humorous tone. In the first book, contrasting the secular madness of pursuing wealth and fame with quiet country life, such as at his Sabine farm, he preaches the value of independence and the importance of moderation in social relationships. The second book shifts its focus to literary criticism, wherein he critiques the blind worship of archaic literature, asserts the social role of the poet, and reflects on his own transition from creative writing to philosophical contemplation. Ultimately, the work concludes that one must abandon attachment to transient possessions and instead cultivate inner harmony and the wisdom of knowing when to gracefully step back from life.
Poetry29 chunks · §1.1.1-1.1.54–§2.2.146-2.2.2162,689 aligned sentencesRead →Epodes
Horace's 'Epodes' is a collection of poems set against the chaotic backdrop of the Roman civil wars, blending biting satire, personal invective, and deep civic anxiety. The collection opens with an expression of intense loyalty to his patron Maecenas, transitioning into a diverse range of topics, including the mock-praise of country life, grotesque insults directed at aging women, and a humorous diatribe against garlic. Amidst these personal grievances, a powerful undercurrent of political despair emerges, as the poet laments the self-destruction of Rome and traces its tragedy back to the original sin of fratricide. The recurring figure of the witch Canidia introduces elements of dark magic, exemplified by a horrifying ritual involving the sacrifice of a child. While the poet desperately urges his fellow citizens to flee the war-torn city for the mythical 'Blessed Isles', the collection culminates in a dramatic surrender to Canidia, who refuses his plea for mercy and promises him eternal torment, leaving the reader with a sense of unresolved bitterness and ironic despair.
Poetry17 chunks · §1.1-1.34–§17.1-17.81791 aligned sentencesRead →Satires
This collection of satirical poems in two books depicts the various follies, greed, hypocrisy, and subtleties of daily life in Roman society with light humor and keen observation. The poet himself serves as the primary narrator, portraying vivid human relationships through his bonds with his patron Maecenas and his beloved father, as well as through humorous dialogues with friends and slaves. Book 1 advocates for the importance of moderation and mutual tolerance, while sharing comical daily encounters—such as being stalked by a chatterbox—and discussing the artistic definition of the satire genre. Book 2 contrasts the virtues of a simple country life with the hassles of the city through the famous fable of the town mouse and country mouse, while ironically exploring Stoic paradoxes, legacy-hunting schemes, and a disastrous dinner party. Avoiding malicious personal attacks, the work reflects on the poet's own flaws and invites readers to embrace contentment by abandoning excessive ambition.
Poetry30 chunks · §1.1.1-1.1.58–§2.8.1-2.8.954,401 aligned sentencesRead →Song of the Ages
"Song of the Ages" is a choral hymn composed to pray for the peace, prosperity, and endurance of the Roman state. The poem is structured as a solemn prayer sung by a chorus of selected young boys and girls during the grand Secular Games. It begins with an invocation to the solar god Apollo and the goddess Diana, calling upon them to protect and bless Rome. The chorus then prays for the moral renewal of the citizens, the abundance of offspring, and the establishment of a peaceful world order. As the hymn progresses, it extols the just rule of Augustus and prays for the perpetuation of his governance. The work concludes with a firm conviction that the gods have heard their prayers, ensuring eternal prosperity and glory for the Roman Empire.
Poetry1 chunks · §1-7660 aligned sentencesRead →The Art of Poetry
This work, written in the form of an epistolary poem by the Roman poet Horace, discusses the principles and practical techniques of poetic composition. At the beginning, the author emphasizes the importance of overall harmony and unity in creation, addressing word choice, the coinage of new terms, and the appropriate use of various meters. In the middle section, he focuses on dramatic poetry, detailing the consistency of character portrayal, the rules of theatrical structure, and the necessity of rigorous revision based on Greek models. Horace positions himself as a "whetstone" that sharpens others' skills, urging poets to refine their craft rather than relying solely on raw talent. The latter part of the work highlights that the ultimate goal of poetry is to combine usefulness and pleasure (utile dulci). It concludes with a warning against flatterers, advocating for honest criticism, and a humorous portrayal of a mad, self-absorbed poet.
Philosophy6 chunks · §1-79–§398-476695 aligned sentencesRead →