The Sappho Poems Celebrating the Beauty of Women

Sappho, the ancient Greek poetess from the island of Lesbos, has captivated readers for centuries with her exquisite verses. Celebrated as one of the greatest lyric poets of all time, she wrote passionately about various themes, notably love, desire, and the beauty of women. Sappho's poems about women are particularly remarkable as they offer a rare glimpse into the lives and emotions of women in ancient Greece. Let's explore some of her captivating poems that celebrate the beauty and allure of women.

Poem 1: "Fragment 31"

One of the most renowned and celebrated poems by Sappho is "Fragment 31." Although only a few lines survive, its beauty and significance are undeniable.

"He seems to me equal to the gods
That man who sits across from you
And listens to your sweet voice,
And your enticing laughter; surely it thunders
In my ears. Once I gaze upon you for a moment,
I can no longer speak,
But my tongue is frozen in an instant fire;
A delicate flame runs beneath my skin,
And with my eyes, I see nothing,
My ears ring and sweat pours down me,
A trembling seizes me all over,
I am greener than grass,
And seem to be little short of dead."

These powerful lines exemplify Sappho's ability to express the overwhelming emotions one can experience in the presence of a beloved woman. The vivid imagery and intense metaphors convey the speaker's enchantment and infatuation.

Poem 2: "Fragment 130"

In "Fragment 130," Sappho beautifully portrays the allure and charm of women, emphasizing their captivating physicality.

"He seems to me equal to the gods
That man whoever he is who opposite you
Sits and listens close to your sweet speaking
And lovely laughing. Oh it puts the heart in my chest on wings
For when I look at you, even a moment, no speaking
Is left in me. No: tongue breaks and thin
Fire is racing under skin
And in eyes no sight and drumming
Fills ears
And cold sweat holds me and shaking
Grips me all, greener than grass
I am and dead—or almost
I seem to me."

Here, Sappho's use of vivid language and sensory details creates a vivid image of the speaker's overwhelming response to the woman's presence. The poem captures the intensity of attraction and the profound effect it has on one's senses.

Poem 3: "Fragment 96"

Sappho's poems not only celebrate the physical beauty of women but also explore the emotional connections and desires shared between them.

"I simply want to be dead."

Though this fragment may appear short, it carries immense emotional weight. Sappho's concise yet powerful words express the speaker's longing and yearning for a woman, suggesting the depth of their connection.

Sappho's poems about women continue to resonate with readers to this day. Her ability to express profound emotions, celebrate physical beauty, and explore the connections between women is truly remarkable. Through her evocative verses, Sappho invites us to appreciate the allure, desire, and love that have always existed between women, transcending time and culture.

As we immerse ourselves in the fragments that remain, we can only imagine the sheer brilliance and impact of Sappho's complete works. Her poetry serves as a testament to the power of female voices and reminds us of the universal experiences of love and desire, regardless of the era in which they are written.

Let us celebrate Sappho's legacy as we continue to appreciate and cherish the beauty of women, both in her words and in our own lives.