msand3's review
5.0
Horace is the most modern sounding of the ancient writers I’ve encountered. And, along with Theocritus’ [b:Idylls|2455|Idylls|Theocritus|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1161044922s/2455.jpg|6444], these satires contain some of my favorite ancient poetry. How interesting that one running theme in the satires is whether or not they are actually poetry! Horace admits that his verse has a more casual syntax than epic poetry or drama, but it is precisely that Common Man voice that resonates so strongly through the ages.
Horace’s humor is gentle, insightful, and often reflective to the point of self-deprecation, even as he touts his own skill, position in life, and worldview. At times, the dialogues have the ring of philosophy, looking back to Socratic dialogue but also forward to Diderot so many centuries later, while never losing a light-hearted flair. The poems cover some classic topics: sex, war, death, money, happiness, love, politics, etc. There is a road trip narrative and a celebration of settling down on the farm. Horace embraces both with the same verve, looking forward to the epistle in which he jokes that man always wants the opposite of what he currently has. In a word, these satires are a prime example of the moderation that Horace espouses like so many ancients before him. A highly enjoyable read.
Horace’s humor is gentle, insightful, and often reflective to the point of self-deprecation, even as he touts his own skill, position in life, and worldview. At times, the dialogues have the ring of philosophy, looking back to Socratic dialogue but also forward to Diderot so many centuries later, while never losing a light-hearted flair. The poems cover some classic topics: sex, war, death, money, happiness, love, politics, etc. There is a road trip narrative and a celebration of settling down on the farm. Horace embraces both with the same verve, looking forward to the epistle in which he jokes that man always wants the opposite of what he currently has. In a word, these satires are a prime example of the moderation that Horace espouses like so many ancients before him. A highly enjoyable read.
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