Catullus's "Sparrow, delight of my girl"
by Frank Watson
My Translation


Sparrow, delight of my girl,

with whom she plays, whom her bosom holds,

eager to give her first finger

and usually keen to incite a bite,

I was struggling with my desire dear,

I do not know how to please you with my joking,

and comfort your pain,

I believe, as the heavy ardor subsides,

I could play with you just as he does,

and smooth the cares of your sorrowed mind!


Original Latin


Passer, deliciae meae puellae,

quicum ludere, quem in sinu tenere,

cui primum digitum dare appetenti

et acris solet incitare morsus,

cum desiderio meo nitenti

carum nescio quid lubet iocari,

et solaciolum sui doloris,

credo, ut tum grauis acquiescant ardor:

tecum ludere sicut ipsa possem

et tristis animi leuare curas!

All writings and translations are Copyright © by Frank Watson, also writing as "Blue Flute" (2011-2014).
Year: 
2011