#328: Invocation to DIONYSIACA

from the Greek of Nonnus

SING goddess the bright burning mess-

enger of the CRONIDAI

the breathless labour brought on by thunder

the electrical storm in Semele’s bridal bed—

               report on the birth

of twice-born BACCHUS whom Zeus his father         plucked

half-formed from the fire —goo-covered baby—

SANS DOULA

how painfully he cut a cavity in his thigh

and carried him there, father and noble mother      both

not unmindful of a previous pregnancy—

     when his head gave birth

having an unbearable and unbegotten lump

enlarging his cranium

until it burst

and shot forth burning in her armor bright

     ATHENA!