Alcinoos



Come my people, I urge you to hear my voice. I must warn my dear Phaeacia Tthat portents have come to call. Our ship has been pinned to the sea floor, And the blame rests on me for not providing fair warning. My fellow countrymen, I recollect a prophecy that my father told me, One of Poseidon's anger toward us sending travelers off in convoys. It was said that on a day much like this day, After escorting a man such as Odysseus, Poseidon would strike down our best men and ship. But the divination went further, saying that a huge mountain, Would be piled around our haven forever imprisoning us. I beg of you, the citizens of Phaeacia, Propitiate Poseidon! Twelve calves, the prime picks of our herds, Sacrifice them to the gods And may the lords of heaven have mercy upon their offspring. Think of your Queen Arete, My beautiful daughter, Nausicca And each of your families! I could not bear the sight of unhappiness On the faces of my dear people. Pray! Pray to the gods and hope that they turn their heads And save our way of life.