Second Stasimon (627-662)
Love coming on too strong
does not give glory or virtue
to men. But if Kypris comes in moderation, 630
no other goddess is so gracious.
Never, oh goddess, may you let fly at me an inescapable arrow
from your golden bow, drenching it in desire.
But let soundness of mind love me, 635
the finest gift of the gods.
Never may dreaded Kypris hit me with quarrelsome angers
and insatiable strife,
after stinging my heart for another bed,
but honoring a warless match, may she wisely discern 640
the loves of women. (1)O fatherland, o home,
may I not be cityless,
leading a life of helplessness, 645
hard to get through,
full of most pitiable sorrows.
By death, by death may I be subdued
before reaching that day;
of troubles there is no other beyond 650
separation from one's native land.I have seen it, I do not have this story
to reflect upon from others;
no city, no friend 655
pities you, suffering
the most terrible of sufferings.
Without grace may he perish for whom
it is possible not to honor loved ones 660
unbolting his heart in pure love.
He will never be a friend of mine.