Priapeia

Priaepia

by divers poets in English verse and prose. Translated by Sir Richard Burton and Leonard C. Smithers

  1. Although with yard distent (Priapus!) weighted
  2. (Wherewith our poet did reprove thee here
  3. In verse), on no wise deign thereat to blush;
  4. Thou be not heavier than our poet hung.
  1. Know that this crass coarse yard nor lengthens nor stands as becomes it;
  2. Though an thou handle the same unto fair growth will it grow.
  3. Woe's me! how lustful girls are gulled by its seeming dimensions
  4. Than which bigger of bulk never a prickle was seen.
  5. Usefuller Tydeus was albeit (an trust we to Homer)
  6. In his diminutive frame dwelt a pugnacious soul.
  7. Yet from this strangeness and shame could nothing ever avail us
  8. And such damage I deem better it were to repel.
  1. While there is life 'tis fitting to hope, O rustical guardian!
  2. Here be thou present and thou aid us, Priapus stiff-nerved.
  1. Bailiff of house whilom, now I of fieldlet the tiller;
  2. Perspectus, these fanes give (O Priapus!) to thee.
  3. So for such offices make I pact (if lawful, O Holy)
  4. Thou of this farm shalt bide ever-assiduous guard.
  5. And if a rogue come rob our field or venture to trespass
  6. Him thou may'st--Hush! for I know whatso shall follow thou know'st.