Ithaka
Constantine Cavafy |
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As you set out for Ithaka hope the voyage is a long one, full of adventure, full of discovery. Laistrygonians and Cyclops, angry Poseidon—don’t be afraid of them: you’ll never find things like that on your way as long as you keep your thoughts raised high, as long as a rare excitement stirs your spirit and your body. Laistrygonians and Cyclops, wild Poseidon—you won’t encounter them unless you bring them along inside your soul, unless your soul sets them up in front of you. Hope the voyage is a long one. Keep Ithaka always in your mind. Ithaka gave you the marvelous journey. And if you find her poor, Ithaka won’t have fooled you. |
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Translated by Edmund Keeley/Philip Sherrard |
Read my new memoir: Rosaries, Reading, Secrets: A Catholic Childhood in India (US) or UK.
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My book of essays: Wandering Between Two Worlds (US) or UK
I love this poem! It is even better to hear it with Sean Connery's voice.