101, Outpours a shrill song

SAPPHO

(Lobel-Page 101 – Σαπφώ – English translation)



Fragment 101.1

(NOTE: "Addressed to Aphrodite", according to Athenaeus.)

With handkerchiefs over your knees

– Purple and fragrant-aired –

That for you Mnasis has sent from Phocaea

As presents costly upon your knees.



Fragment 101.2

(NOTE: "About the cicada", according to Athenaeus.)

And from its wings' underside

There outpours a shrill song,

When brilliantly down over the

Earth it'd fly, full enchanting.