Erato

Read "Erato" at The Eldritch Dark:

http://www.eldritchdark.com/writings/poetry/164/erato

The title of this poem from Clark Ashton Smith (CAS) refers to the muse of love poetry from Greek mythology.  She is often depicted holding a lyre, and CAS' poem adheres to that tradition with its reference to "the lyre's revibrant strings".

"Erato" is written in a grand romantic style that is somewhat unusual for CAS' mature verses.  I can't say that this poem does much for me as a reader, since there is a certain coldness in the way it evokes the passions of love.