I am that Helen, that very Helen
Of Leda, born in the days of old:
Men's hearts were as inns that I might dwell in:
Houseless I wander to-night, and cold.
Because man loved me, no God takes pity:
My ghost goes wailing where I was Queen!
Alas! my chamber in Troy's tall city,
My golden couches, my hangings green!
Wasted with fire are the halls they built me,
And sown with salt are the streets I trod,
Where flowers they scattered and spices spilt me-
Alas, that Zeus is a jealous God!
Softly I went on my sandals golden j
Of love and pleasure I took my fill;
With Paris' kisses my lids were holden,
Nor guessed I, when life went at my will,
That the Fates behind me went softlier still.
I am busy working to bring Nora Hopper Chesson's "Helen of Troy" to life through some unique musical arrangements and will have a full analysis of the poem here for you later.
In the meantime, I invite you to explore the poem's themes, structure, and meaning. You can also check out the gallery for other musical arrangements or learn more about Nora Hopper Chesson's life and contributions to literature.
Check back soon to experience how "Helen of Troy" transforms when verse meets melody—a unique journey that makes poetry accessible, engaging, and profoundly moving in new ways.