The Poems of Catullus
Written in the twilight of the Roman Republic, the poetry of Gaius Valerius Catullus offers a delicious insight into the passions and gossip of high Roman society.
From the poet and his friends to cultural and political titans, including Caesar, Cicero, and Pompey, his cutting, modern verse spares no-one. In this new translation by Daisy Dunn, author of Catullus’ Bedspread, his obscene honesty, arrogant wit and surprising tenderness capture Roman society at their best.
Most famous for his obsessive love lyrics for the married Lesbia, Catullus’ words are an immortal expression of youth, rebellion and agonised love.
”'A superlative translation” - Sunday Times
”'Translated, with bright-eyed intelligence” - Spectator
”'An intelligent and often original interpreter of the poetry [she] provides clear, direct and readable translations” - Financial TimesPraise for Daisy Dunn:
”'An amazing mixture of pacey biography and first rate literary analysis. Rome's most famous bad boy poet comes alive as never before. Stunning” - Boris Johnson
”'A haunting reminder of how little humanity has changed over two thousand years and a moving introduction to the greatest love poet of all time” - Robert Harris
”'Lyrical, playful and startlingly original … Breathes extraordinary new life into the classical world. An unforgettable journey into the high art and low life of ancient Rome” - Dan Jones