Source edition
Lucian, Vol. 6. Kilburn, Kenneth, editor. London: William Heinemann, Ltd.; Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1959 (unrenewed copyright).
Source data
Perseus Digital Library · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cloned and adapted by Humanitext, with ongoing edits.
Summary
This prose work introduces the "Dipsas," a terrifying venomous snake inhabiting the Libyan desert, to express the author's passionate devotion to oratory before his audience. In the first half, the author vividly describes the extremely harsh natural environment of southern Libya and the hunting life of the Garamantes, introducing various venomous creatures, especially the Dipsas, whose bite causes an incurable thirst. He then explains the medical reason why drinking water only intensifies the venom, accompanying this with a tragic epitaph of a victim. Ultimately, the author turns this bizarre natural phenomenon into a metaphor, comparing his insatiable passion for speaking to the intense thirst of the Dipsas, and the audience to the pure water that attracts him. It is a highly creative piece that transitions from exotic natural history to a refined expression of respect for the audience.