The Odes and Carmen Saeculare of Horace

Step into the world of Horace, the Roman poet whose concise, witty verses have guided thinkers for two millennia. This audio edition gathers his celebrated Odes and the ceremonial Carmen Saeculare, rendered into English verse that strives to echo the original rhythms and sharp insights. Listeners will hear timeless reflections on love, nature, and the fleeting nature of fame, all delivered with the same compact brilliance that made Horace a source of quotable wisdom.

The translator, a distinguished classicist, explains his choice to mirror Horace’s varied metres, preserving the bite‑size proverbs and musicality that define the poems. His thoughtful commentary reveals how each English line aims to balance literal meaning with the poet’s graceful cadence, offering a glimpse into the art of poetic translation. Whether you’re new to Latin lyric or returning to a familiar voice, this recording invites you to experience Horace’s ancient songs as fresh, resonant verses spoken aloud.