Parker Lacey
March 25 2014
Part 1:
The poem Ithaca is a metaphor for a trip or vacation of sorts. Ithaca is a poem based off of the epic adventure of Odysseus. In Ithaca the say "When you start on your journey to Ithaca then pray that the road is long,full of adventure, full of knowledge." they are saying such to represent the journey home after a vacation or trip. They say that to say after your vacation take your time returning home, learn something new you never knew. Then, there is a phrase where they say "Do not fear the Lestrygonians and the Cyclopes and the angry Poseidon. You will never meet such as these on your path" this is saying don't worry about the troubles or problems you may have run into on you journey there all in that past and there is no need for anyone to dwell on the past.
Temple of Poseidon - Western fascade
Ulysses at the court of Alcinous
English: Head of Odysseus from a sculptural group ...After that there is a phrase that is stated "Stop at Phoenician markets, and purchase fine merchandise". They are saying on the way home stop and buy a souvenir for you family or friends at home who could not accompany you on your journey. Then they state to never forget about Ithaca. They simply mean to always remember Ithaca, this is where you belong your home, you must arrive home safely no matter how great you may have it somewhere else. Then they say "Ithaca has given you the beautiful voyage. Without her you would never have taken the road. But she has nothing more to give you.". This means that your home has done so much for you, but now this is nothing compared to the voyage that you have just undergone.
The Odyssey has been told over and over again...