I
Wreathed in myrtle, my sword I’ll conceal
Like those champions devoted and brave,
When they plunged in the tyrant their steel,
And to Athens deliverance gave.
II
Beloved heroes! your deathless souls roam
In the joy-breathing isles of the blest;
Where the mighty of old have their home
Where Achilles and Diomed rest.
III
In fresh myrtle my blade I’ll entwine,
Like Harmodius, the gallant and good,
When he made at the tutelar shrine
A libation of Tyranny’s blood.
IV
Ye deliverers of Athens from shame!
Ye avengers of Liberty’s wrongs!
Endless ages shall cherish your fame,
Embalmed in their echoing songs!
Credits
Edgar Allan Poe was an American writer of the 19th century, celebrated above all for his gothic fiction and poetry, yet equally drawn to classical themes in his early verse. This poem is a free adaptation of an ancient Greek drinking song, the Skolion of Harmodius, reflecting Poe's deep engagement with classical literature during his time at the University of Virginia.
