by Coleridge · Cluster: Satire of Society · Epigram · Satire
Abstract
Imitations/translations of an epigram of Claudian turning a gift into frankincense and myrrh; a graceful compliment to a friend who sends gifts, in Latin and English.
Connections
Motifs: Flowers Themes & Concepts: Friendship, Romantic Love Forms & Genres: Epigram Historical References: Ancient Rome
Testo integrale / Full text
TRANSLATED FROM CLAUDIAN
Dulce dona mihi tu mittis semper Elisa!
Et quicquid mittis Thura putare decet.
The above adapted from an Epigram of Claudian [No. lxxxii, Ad Maximum
Qui mel misit], by substituting Thura for Mella: the original
Distich being in return for a present of Honey.
Imitation
Sweet Gift! and always doth Elisa send
Sweet Gifts and full of fragrance to her Friend
Enough for Him to know they come from HER:
Whate’er she sends is Frankincense and Myrrh.
ANOTHER ON THE SAME SUBJECT BY S. T. C. HIMSELF
Semper Elisa! mihi tu suaveolentia donas:
Nam quicquid donas, te redolere puto.
Translation
Whate’er thou giv’st, it still is sweet to me,
For still I find it redolent of thee.
1833, 4. Now first published from an MS.