The Return of Odysseus, Claude Lorrain, 1644. From umich.edu/ Some time ago, a reader of my blog called Rafael recommended me the poem Ithaca by Constantine P. Cavafy. Id never come across it before, but Im so glad that I read it. Ithaca is based on Homers account of Odysseuss journey home. As you may expect from this influence, the poem has so much to say about life in all its complexity, with both the setbacks and the positive memories that become inevitable. Like so many self-help books advise, the poem urges you to live for the journey rather than the expected end-point, in order to have a flourishing and fulfilling life. As Ithaca suggests, we should not wish away our time, but ask that [our] way be long. We may have problems at work, financial worries, or have lost a loved one, but when we eventually, and inevitably, overcome these troubles (or when we reach our own metaphorical Ithaca) we will be so much the stronger. Moreover, if the same challenges reoccur - which is likely - we will be able to deal with them in a much stronger and more experienced way. Be aware of how life is for you now, and ensure to be appreciative of all the art, culture, and beauty that you could quite easily have never seen. I often think in this way when times are hard, and it really helps lift my mood. Its so easy just to spend time looking at a beautiful painting, listening to a timeless piece of music, or reading a classic. Or, quite simply, dwell on what youre learning from your current hardship. After a bad relationship and breakup some years back, I learned not to depend on others for my own happiness and wellbeing. Similarly, spending time away from home has helped me be grateful for my family and home when they are accessible. Because of the experiences that I found difficult to deal with, I now feel more prepared to deal with my future, and Im excited at whats to come. Also, I can of course write about my memories and my journey forwards! I hope that you enjoy this poem: Ithaca When you set out for Ithaka ask that your way be long, full of adventure, full of instruction. The Laistrygonians and the Cyclops, angry Poseidon - do not fear them: such as these you will never find as long as your thought is lofty, as long as a rare emotion touch your spirit and your body. The Laistrygonians and the Cyclops, angry Poseidon - you will not meet them unless you carry them in your soul, unless your soul raise them up before you. Ask that your way be long. At many a Summer dawn to enter with what gratitude, what joy - ports seen for the first time; to stop at Phoenician trading centres, and to buy good merchandise, mother of pearl and coral, amber and ebony, and sensuous perfumes of every kind, sensuous perfumes as lavishly as you can; to visit many Egyptian cities, to gather stores of knowledge from the learned. Have Ithaka always in your mind. Your arrival there is what you are destined for. But dont in the least hurry the journey. Better it last for years, so that when you reach the island you are old, rich with all you have gained on the way, not expecting Ithaka to give you wealth. Ithaka gave you a splendid journey. Without her you would not have set out. She hasnt anything else to give you. And if you find her poor, Ithaka hasnt deceived you. So wise you have become, of such experience, that already youll have understood what these Ithakas mean. Constantine P. Cavafy
Posted on: Fri, 14 Mar 2014 14:13:20 +0000
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