Ode To Aphrodite

Come, Aphrodite, from your Cyprian home, By sparrow wings borne and instantly Alight in this temple's cloister, So sacred to you and your beauty. Here orange groves welcome And the altars on which The frankincense smoulders. Come, Aphrodite, to this pleasant bower, Where streamlets murmur Through fruit laden branches And cascades of red roses o'ershadow The ground and from the flickering leafage Enchantment is settling below. Come, Aphrodite, to these lush grassy meadows Where wildflowers grow.. The poppy, the cornflower and bright marigolds Where the breezes may comb Softly your delicate hair. Come, Aphrodite, a garland awaits you. The nectar is mixed in goblets of gold. Guest of our Fete, we ask you with pleasure To pour the Libation Which we will drink to your honour.