Translation:Catullus 85

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Catullus 85
by Catullus, translated from Latin by Wikisource

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One of Catullus' more famous pieces. Its poignant brevity and terseness underscore the forcefulness of Catullus' intimate declaration. It is one of a series of poems in which Catullus attempts to reconcile his conflicting feelings for his mistress Lesbia. Elegiac couplet.

11048Catullus 85Catullus

Literal English Translation	Original Latin	Line
I hate and I love. Why I do this, perhaps you ask. I do not know, but I feel it being done and I am tormented.	Ōdī et amō. Quārē id faciam, fortasse requīris. Nesciŏ, sed fierī sentiō et excrucior.	85.1 85.2