Greek Texts & Translations

There is longing even for woes. What was in no way dear was dear, so long as I held him in my embrace. 1700Father, Dear, clothed in the darkness of the underworld forever! Never in your absence will you not be dear to me and to my sister here.

He fared—

He fared as he desired.

1705In what way?

He died on the foreign ground that he desired; he has his well-shaded bed beneath the ground for ever; and he did not leave behind unwept sorrow. With these weeping eyes, father, I lament you; 1710nor do I know how in my wretchedness I must still my grief for you that is so immense. Alas! You wanted to die in a foreign land, but you died without me near.

Wretched me! What fate 1715awaits you and me, dear, orphaned as we are of our father?

1720Cease from your grief, dear girls, since his end is blessed. No one is beyond the reach of evil.