[283] Hymn, ode, and epic. Define each of these three kinds of poetry. [284] Apollo. In classic mythology, the sun god who presided over music, poetry, and art; he was the guardian and leader of the Muses. [285] Muses. In classic mythology, the nine sisters who presided over music, poetry, art, and science. They were Clio the muse of history, Euterpe of music, especially the flute, Thalia of comedy, Melpomene of tragedy, Terpsichore of dancing, Erato of erotic poetry, mistress of the lyre, Polyhymnia of sacred poetry, Urania of astronomy, Calliope of eloquence and epic poetry. [286] Genius. According to an old belief, a spirit that watched over a person to control, guide and aid him. [287] "Crush the sweet poison," etc. This is a quotation from Comus, a poem by Milton. [288] Systole and diastole. (See note 98.) [289] Friendship, like the immortality, etc. See on what a high plane Emerson places this relation of friendship. In 1840 he wrote in a letter: "I am a worshiper of friendship, and cannot find any other good equal to it. As soon as any man pronounces the words which approve him fit for that great office, I make no haste; he is holy; let me be holy also; our relations are eternal; why should we count days and weeks?" [290] Elysian temple. Temple of bliss. In Greek mythology, Elysium was the abode of the blessed after death. [291] An Egyptian skull. Plutarch says that at an Egyptian feast a skull was displayed, either as a hint to make the most of the pleasure which can be enjoyed but for a brief space, or as a warning not to set one's heart upon transitory things. [292] Conscious of a universal success, etc. Emerson wrote in his journal: "My entire success, such as it is, is composed wholly of particular failures." [293] Extends the old leaf. Compare Emerson's lines: "When half-gods go The gods arrive." [294] A texture of wine and dreams. What does Emerson mean by this phrase? Explain the whole sentence. [295] "The valiant warrior," etc. The quotation is from Shakespeare's Sonnet, xxv. [296] Naturlangsamkeit. A German word meaning slowness. The slowness of natural development. [297] Olympian. One who took part in the great Greek games held every four years on the plain of Olympia. The racing, wrestling and other contests of strength and skill were accompanied by sacrifices to the gods, processions, and banquets. There was a sense of dignity and almost of worship about the games. The Olympic games have been recently revived, and athletes from all countries of the world contest for the prizes—simple garlands of wild olive. [298] I knew a man who, etc. The allusion is to Jonas Very, a mystic and poet, who lived at Salem, Massachusetts. [299] Paradox. Define this word. Explain its application to a friend.