Poem 98 by Catullus (two translations)

Poem 98 – Catullus (trans. Peter Whigham)

The same can be said of you, Victius
as of any open mouthed bore
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxsuffering from halitosis.
With that tongue of yours one can actually credit
your licking, at will, besmeared boots and buttocks.
If you wish to prostrate the company –
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxgape:
you will effectively accomplish your purpose.


***

To Vicitus the Stinkard - Catullus (trans. Richard Burton)

Rightly of thee may be said, an of any, (thou stinkingest Victius!)
Whatso wont we to say touching the praters and prigs.
Thou wi' that tongue o' thine own, if granted occasion availest
Brogues of the cowherds to kiss, also their . . . .
Wouldst thou undo us all with a thorough undoing (o Victius!)
Open thy gape -thereby all shall be wholly undone.



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