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A review by kyatic
I Hate and I Love by Catullus
4.0
Perhaps it's in part to the translation, which I've since researched and found to be largely considered overtly stylised, but I was surprised by the modern tone that a lot of this poetry took. I was also interested to see the contrast between the famous Lesbia poems and the less well-known odes to some of Catullus' male friends and possible lovers - those who are expecting a book of love poetry to one woman, as Catullus' work is so often marketed, will not find their expectations met.
As well as some particularly scorchin' verses extolling the virtues of his lovers' bodies, there are some hilariously caustic criticisms and downright catty rebukes here. Catullus is widely renowned for his satirical abilities and his sharp tongue, and both are on display in this short collection.
Given the generally accepted unfaithfulness of the translation, I'll certainly be seeking out some more closely translated versions of Catullus' work to see exactly where Catullus comes into his own, but this is still an incredibly enjoyable introduction.
As well as some particularly scorchin' verses extolling the virtues of his lovers' bodies, there are some hilariously caustic criticisms and downright catty rebukes here. Catullus is widely renowned for his satirical abilities and his sharp tongue, and both are on display in this short collection.
Given the generally accepted unfaithfulness of the translation, I'll certainly be seeking out some more closely translated versions of Catullus' work to see exactly where Catullus comes into his own, but this is still an incredibly enjoyable introduction.