Semonides

I'm in the midst of revision, but I thought I should write something to prove I haven't dropped off the face of the Earth. Admittedly, that's what it feels like. All my friends have now graduated, whereas I'm languishing here, facing another three weeks of exams.

I'd feel better if the exams counted for something/anything, but in fact.. they don't. If I pass, great; if I fail.. I'll have the task of convincing my university to let me return for final year. The other student here with me from Bristol has dropped out, so I don't want to make it two for two!

Anyway, I'm currently revising Greek. My first exam is on two books of the Iliad and most of the archaic poets (Callinus, Tyrtaeus, Mimnermus, Solon, Archilocus, Theognis, Xenophanes, Hipponax, Sappho, Alcaeus, Anacreon, Alcman, Stesichorus, Ibicus, Simonides, Pindar and Bacchylides.. it's hard enough remembering them all.) Semonides is actually the one poet I don't have to translate, but I did have to read about his exploits in the textbook. Nice guy. Especially the part where women are disgusting. Oh wait, that's the whole thing. Semonides, you crack me up. However, it does make me want to look at bees in a literary context.

Note to self: never again get yourself into the situation where your self-value is tied to your ability to translate Ancient Greek into Italian.