Interpretation of 1st part of Dante’s “Inferno” by R.L. Livesay Missing with madness, lost in life’s lagoon Awoke upon the forest leaves, cold and damp Displaced, not knowing where or why I was. Without words, wondered what did happen Alone, shivering in this dark lost place Thought and sounds and sights increased my fear. The bitter feelings it gave me were vile I looked around at shadows, good and bad Will tell you other things that I have found. It’s still a mystery how I came to this It was like a sleep, a dream, a wonder Lost within, wandering on unknown paths. I walked until I found the mountains climb The valley ceased as I felt my feet arise Sudden confusion overtook my heart. Behold, a misty light as I looked up The planet’s moonlight shown into the dark Opening paths for all to guide their way. The feeling of fear was lessened somewhat And what my heart had endured was calmed Night had passed, my self pity had vanished. But there was the one with deceitful airs Roaming below the sea to forest’s shore Turning the sentinel’s shadows to fearful gaze. And so still my soul was fleeing forward Looking into the past which was behind Never to know if any person was left. I sat awhile to rest my weary soul Then continued upon my journey’s path Seeing that my footing was safe and sure. Behold, it was where the assent began Appeared a leopard in the light, so swift With beauty-spotted skin, a covered awe. She froze before my eyes and didn’t move She seemed at times to block my forward path Oft’ I turned and re-turned along the way. The dawning of the light was in the sky The sun began to rise to make the day That also with him was time, Love Divine. The wondrous setting of those good things Gave my heart peaceful hope, transcending fear Admiring the wild beast’s beautiful skin. The passing time was a stellar season Then again that fearful feeling returned Before my eyes the figure of a lion. He was approaching and seemed to be fierce Mane held high, his eyes appeared to hunger Bounding, causing the air to swirl out of his way. Then I knew, I was that beast without peace It gaining on me surely by degrees And back I went into the shadows gone. Down the hill, I rushed into the valley But before my eyes there was a presence As one appearing from a long silence. I beheld him when I reached the desert Then I cried; “Have mercy upon me, please” “I know not who you are or what you want” “I am not a man now but once I was Both my parents raised me in Roman times Of Augustus, with false and lying gods. I was a poet and at that time sang Why do you not climb mount Delectable? “Which is the cause and source of every joy?” Could you be that master poet Virgil? If so you are my master and author And your beautiful style has honored me. Will you protect me from this loathsome beast? It makes me tremble and diverts my path Weeping, I cried, “Protect me, please O’ sage.” This gaunt greedy beast must be hunted down Feeding upon love, wisdom and virtue, A savior shall drive her back into Hell. And now, I think it best to follow me I will guide you through this eternal place You shall hear the desperate ancient spirits. Hear those crying out for the second death Those lamenting within the fires of Hell… After following the poet for awhile Asking why I‘m here; how can I leave It is said with new thoughts; intentions change The false sight of the beast is cowardice. Appear, O’ virtuous lady, Beatrice O’ lady, are you what is needful for release? I come from there but love moved me away. Alas, I am not afraid to enter here Fear nothing that will do others no harm Your fearful misery attains me not.
Posted on: Thu, 19 Sep 2013 02:43:40 +0000
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