Sappho “Antonymical”
(If you are looking for “Walking Theories 1 - 10″ go down to the previous entry, Thanks).
I have been on a little “antonymical” translation binge with Ann Carson’s translations of Sappho. I find the Carson intriguingly fidel - as say compared to Mary Barnard who I find “imagist” (as in Pound) compelled to make tight, formally effective poems, which they are often are. Where the Carson, I find myself wanting to turn the work upside down and pull up another - dare I say “parallel” universe - or, in keeping with the “Walking Theories” - another place to let the language walk and be surprised at itself.
Here goes a couple: Will be happy to get your responses (Stephen Vincent
60.
(Sappho - Ann Carson)
]having encountered
]wants
]accomplish the plan
]I call out
]to the heart all at once
]all that you wish to win
]to fight for me
]by the wanton one persuaded
]but yes you know well
]
]
(Stephen V)
To Stephanie
Over there, a limited estate
And no companions
And, what can I say,
Prowling the coastline
A harpoon without pity
She rides a horse
With silk on the saddle.
63.
(Carson)
Dream of black
You come roaming and when sleep
Sweet god, terribly from pain
To hold the strength separate
But I expect not to share
Nothing of the blessed ones
For I would not be like this
Toys
But may it happen to me
All
(Vincent)
Rope the Oak tree
Brave one
Gather bitter lemons
And then some
And for you
Lay away
Shut up
Speak to no one
I will arrive
Rude, crude
You will be the last,
Burnished.
+++++
That’s it.