The Greek Gods ES

Sappho's second poem is urging Aphrodite to come down to the Earth to a holy place with Sappho. Sappho describes all the good and lovely things about this place. She talks about the fruit and the fresh spring flowers as she invites Aphrodite to come celebrate with her. The second stanza in the translations is very different. Hutchins translation is very harsh. He describes "icy waters" roaring and "shaking leaves" pouring down. On the other hand, Gilbert's translation is milder, describing "cold water" dripping as "slumber descends" from the leaves in this holy space. Hutchins approaches the text as passionate and urgent- a call for companionship to Aphrodite. Gilbert approaches the text as a persuasive invitation. She describes all the good things about the place where she is, inviting Aphrodite to come join her in celebration.