Summary

Sappho asks what it is about Philaenis that renders her so beautiful. She explains that she cannot compare her body to things like "down," "stars," "cedars," and "lilies," because Philaenis's body parts can only be compared to their matching counterpart on Philaenis herself (22). Sappho has heard herself described as beautiful as well, but because she grieves over her desire for Philaenis, she fears her grief will make her less beautiful and desirable in Philaenis's eyes.

Sappho imagines that Philaenis is enjoying the company of "some soft boy" (31). She argues that this relationship would be lacking "a mutual feeling" and disparages the boy for his facial hair and roughness (32). Men, Sappho says, leave behind traces and evidence of their erotic dalliances, like tracks made in the snow. But, she notes, her relationship with Philaenis would leave behind no such trace, and they would enjoy each...