[You for] the fragrant-blossomed Muses’ lovely gifts [be…
![“[You for] the fragrant-blossomed Muses’ lovely gifts [be zealous,] girls, [and the] clear melodious lyre: [but my once tender] body old age now [has seized;] my hair’s turned [white] instead of dark; my heart’s grown heavy, my knees will not support me, that once on a time were fleet for the dance…” quote by Sappho](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/766/sappho-4562_old-age_you-for-the-fragrant-blossomed-muses-lov_1015183.jpg)
““[You for] the fragrant-blossomed Muses’ lovely gifts [be zealous,] girls, [and the] clear melodious lyre: [but my once tender] body old age now [has seized;] my hair’s turned [white] instead of dark; my heart’s grown heavy, my knees will not support me, that once on a time were fleet for the dance as fawns. This state I oft bemoan; but what’s to do? Not to grow old, being human, there’s no way. Tithonus once, the tale was, rose-armed Dawn, love-smitten, carried off to the world’s end, handsome and young then, yet in time grey age o’ertook him, husband of immortal wife.””
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 laments aging, contrasting youthful vigor with inevitable decline, using myth of Tithonus as a cautionary example.
In simple terms: Aging is unavoidable and painful.
Key Takeaway
Accept aging and find meaning beyond youth.
Themes
mortality
aging
myth
loneliness
Mood
melancholic
reflective
Type
poetic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- reflecting on personal aging
- discussing mythological stories
- contemplating legacy
- writing poetry about loss
- teaching about impermanence
Key Concepts
Greek lyric
human condition
time
beauty
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you find purpose as you age?
- What lessons can Tithonus teach about love and mortality?
A Different Perspective
Aging can also bring wisdom and deeper connections, not only loss.