Inferno: Canto XIII Not yet had Nessus reached the other…
““Inferno: Canto XIII Not yet had Nessus reached the other side, When we had put ourselves within a wood, That was not marked by any path whatever. Not foliage green, but of a dusky colour, Not branches smooth, but gnarled and intertangled, Not apple-trees were there, but thorns with poison. Such tangled thickets have not, nor so dense, Those savage wild beasts, that in hatred hold 'Twixt Cecina and Corneto the tilled places. There do the hideous Harpies make their nests, Who chased the Trojans from the Strophades, With sad announcement of impending doom; Broad wings have they, and necks and faces human, And feet with claws, and their great bellies fledged; They make laments upon the wondrous trees.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The poet describes a dark, poisonous thicket inhabited by monstrous creatures, symbolizing perilous obstacles and moral corruption.
In simple terms: A dangerous, twisted forest filled with monsters represents hardship.
Key Takeaway
Navigate challenges with awareness of hidden dangers.
Themes
mythology
symbolism
danger
corruption
Mood
reflective
dramatic
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- spiritual journey
- creative writing
Key Concepts
dark forest
monstrous beings
poisonous thorns
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal “thickets” do you face?
- How can you find a path through confusion?
A Different Perspective
Interpretation may vary across cultures.