Roman Elegy V

Roman Elegy V - context Summary

Goethe in Rome

This elegy from Goethe's Roman Elegies records his experience in Rome, where classical study and sensual life mingle. By day he reads and contemplates ancient art; by night a lover provides erotic companionship that inspires physical pleasure and poetic creation. The poem links tactile encounters with statues and poetic form, invoking Amor and classical poets to suggest that Roman life renews both bodily desire and artistic production.

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Joyously inspired do I feel myself here on classic ground; Past and present speak louder and more enchantingly. Here I follow the advice, leaf through the classics With busy hand, each day with pleasure renewed. But throughout the nights Amor keeps me busy in a different way; Even if only halfway taught, I am yet made doubly happy. And do I not teach myself when the shape of a lovely bosom I espy or lead the hand down along the hips? Then do I well understand the marble; I think and compare, See with sentient eye, sense with seeing hand. Though my darling may rob me of several daylight hours, She compensates me with the gift of nocturnal ones. For kiss all the time we do not, rather talk most sensibly; If sleep overcomes her, I lie and pursue my many thoughts. Oft have I made poetry in her arms And measured hexameters with my fingers All down her back. She breathes in lovely slumber, And her breath glows through me deep down my breast. Amor trims the lamp and remembers the times When he performed the same service for his three great poets.