#greek muses
The Muse Erato Writing Verses Inspired by Love
Charles Meynier (French; 1768–1832)
ca. 1797
Pen and black ink, brush and gray wash, heightened with white gouache over black chalk underdrawing; squared in black chalk
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
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O muse, when together we beheld her countenance, you flew -
And inspiration fled with you
As I gazed upon her loveliness in silence.
Why must my voice become mute when I long
To render an exquisite song?
Were your enchanting words withheld from me
Because of her flawless beauty?
Then stifle only your harsh jealousy and release my tongue,
For love’s sweet verses must be sung,
And I will sing them forever if she consents.
Prayer to Erato
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