The Carmina of Caius Valerius Catullus

"The Carmina of Caius Valerius Catullus" by Gaius Valerius Catullus is a gathering of ancient Latin poems that paint a picture of life long ago. The collection shows themes of love, longing, and societal observations through the author's powerful words. The poems discuss relationships, especially one with a person called Lesbia, and also friends and enemies, showing how emotions play a role in connections between people. The start of the collection is a dedication and includes the poet's loves and losses, making the tone personal. Early poems show the author's fondness for Lesbia with stories of her pet sparrow, and grief at the death of her pet, showing just how deeply he feels. These selections show the poet's mix of affection and humor, while also suggesting strong emotional currents in his verses. Overall, the beginning sets the stage for the exploration of love.