English poem
At The Table Of A Friend
by Giosuè Carducci (1835–1907)
Not since when on me a child Heaven's gracious radiance smiled Hast thou, O Sun, such splendour poured As on my friend's Livornian board.
Never, O God of Feasts, was sent A solace so benevolent As wisely glowed within the wines We drank beneath the Apennines.
O Sun, O Bromius, grant that whole In loving heart and virtuous soul We to the quiet shades descend (Where Horace is)—I and my friend.
Thy fortune smile upon the young Like flowers around our banquet flung; Peace to the mothers give, and fame To valiant youth and love's sweet flame!
ODI BARBARE.