In the great epic poem The Aenied, by the great Roman literary genius Publius Vergilius Maro known to us as Virgil, the hero of the tale Aeneas of Troy encounters his father Anchises in the depths of the Underworld during one scene of the story.
Anchises reminds his son Aeneas and the Roman reader of the poem that there is a certain art or ability reserved specifically for the Roman people.
“Roman, remember by your strength to rule
Earth’s peoples—for your arts are to be these:
To pacify, to impose the rule of law,
To spare the conquered, battle down the proud.” (6.1151-1154)
In other words, to be a Roman means to excel in the realms of rulership and warfare. For in truth, it is the destiny of the Roman to be ruler over all peoples.
However, Anchises also points out to his son that there are other peoples throughout the world who have been gifted with talents that go well beyond the average Roman’s knowledge and ability. The most notable example would be the Greeks and their vast philosophical learning.
If I were to agree with Anchises’ statement that certain national groups are somehow endowed with the capacity for talent in certain fields, whether by circumstance, chance, or fate – I would have to say that in the realm of Poetry, the Persian may be kings of us all.
I’ll unpack that idea at a later date – but for now.. perhaps a taste from one of the great masters, Hafez, in translation?
Beauty of you hair puts the fragrant violet to shame:
your delicious smile: no rose bud hopes to gain!
O scented rose, will you set on fire our nightingale?
Who sings your praise all night – the lover’s prayer!
Weary of the company of angels, yet
I bear the chaos of the world for your sake.
What a treasure of love! Poor and proud,
your beggar nicks the crown of kings!
The garments of virtue and the cup of wine are incompatible,
yet all my plans leader to satisfy you!
The passion of the wine of your love stops my breath short;
may this fevered head become the dust of your road.
Echo House 