Ancient Greek Lyrics

Phokylides

93 phokylides Phokylides Perhaps a contemporary of Solon and Mimnermos (ca. 600 bce), Phokylides was a citizen of Miletos. He wrote a series of maxims, each with the “seal” of the author (i.e., each beginning with a formula which included the author’s name). Some have seen in this pride of authorship a sign of the new consciousness of the individual. Phokylides wrote in dactylic hexameters instead of elegiacs. (The verses known as the Carmen Phokylideum are an interesting 230line succession of maxims written by either a Jew or a Christian ca. 100 ce.) To prove this we might consider the poetry of Hesiod, Theognis and Phokylides, who are declared to be the best counselors ever known in matters of human life. Isokrates, To Nikokles Archilochos may be reproached for his subject matter, Parmenides for his prosody and Phokylides for his poverty of expression. . . . Yet each deserves praise for his special innate ability to stir and lead his audience. Plutarch, On Listening Appearance of Wisdom Many empty-headed clods pass by like sages when they walk with chin erect and stern eyes. On the Problem of Choosing a Wife In the words of Phokylides, the tribes of women come in four breeds: bee, bitch and grimy sow, and sinewy mare with draping mane. The mare is healthy, swift, roundly built and on the loose. The monster-looking sow is neither good nor rotten, and the bristling bitch lies snapping at the leash. The Greek Period 94 Yes, the bee is best: a whizz at cleaning, trim and good in cooking. My poor friend, I tell you, for a bright, balmy marriage, pray for a bee. ...