Encomium of Helen

“The power of speech has the same effect on the disposition of the soul as the disposition of drugs on the nature of bodies…. With my speech I have removed this woman’s ill repute … for Helen’s encomium and my amusement.” — Gorgias of Leontini (ca. 483-376 BCE)

Speak.
Articulate. Absolve. Amuse.

O Fortuna,
Melting like ice.

As decreed
necessity,

she brings her back
bare to your villainy,

the whip is a string
plucked and throbbing

delirium protects
incantatrix injects

Sisters of craft and magic stir
joypainfearcourage
Pleasure
Bewitch. Benumb.

Love’s persuasion
Love’s compulsion
Mindsnare

And no one asked you
To do a thing
But listen