Satire I Summary

Juvenal, the narrator, complains about bad playwriting. Listing all of the immoral activities in the world, such as adultery and bribery, he does not understand why people waste paper writing different versions of mythological stories repeatedly. No one in the world can sleep easy because of all the interesting things in the world; yet, they rewrite mythology. Although his talent is wanting, indignation compels him to write poetry. It will take all of his human endeavors combined to create a book. Vice has never been more eminent. Money causes the deepest reverence with temples, yet they do not construct temples for it.

Poverty-stricken people have to manage regardless of lacking money. The days are marked by a prescribed and fascinating routine. Clients expect their patrons to provide for them, but the patrons are greedy. Posterity will inherit their longings and vices...