I recently had the pleasure of reading Ars Poetica and Carmen Saeculare by Quintus H. H. Flaccus, and I must say that I was deeply impressed by the author's writing style and poetic prowess. Flaccus's command of language and imagery is truly remarkable, and his ability to evoke emotions and paint vivid pictures with his words is simply captivating.

Ars Poetica is a masterful exploration of the art of poetry itself, filled with insightful reflections on the nature of creativity and the role of the poet in society. Flaccus's writing is both elegant and thought-provoking, and it is clear that he has a deep understanding and appreciation for the power of language.

Carmen Saeculare, on the other hand, is a stunning collection of lyric poems that celebrate the joy and beauty of life. Flaccus's verses are rich with emotion and imagery, and his love for the natural world shines through in every line. The poems in this collection are a true delight to read, and I found myself returning to them again and again for their beauty and depth.

Overall, I highly recommend Ars Poetica and Carmen Saeculare to anyone who appreciates exquisite poetry and thoughtful reflections on the art of writing. Quintus H. H. Flaccus is a true master of his craft, and his work is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who reads it.

Book Description:

The Ars Poetica, by Horace, also known as Epistula ad Pisones, is a treatise on poetry written in the form of a letter, and published around 18 B.C. In it, Horace defines and exemplifies the nature, scope and correct way of writing poetry. This work, inspired by the book of the same name by Aristotle, is one of the most influential in Latin literature, and the source of famous concepts in poetics, such as “in medias res” and “ut pictura poesis”. The text itself is a poem in 476 dactilic hexameters.

The Carmen Saeculare, or “Song of the Ages”, is a hymn written by Horace in 17 b.C. for the Ludi saeculares of the same year. It is believed that the poem was commissioned by the Emperor Augustus and sung by a choir of young men and women during the opening ceremony of the Games of the Century, a religious celebration that happened in Rome once every saeculum (century). The saeculum was considered to be the maximum length of a human life, which means the Games happened once every generation. The poem was written is nineteen sapphic stanzas, and in an elevated and religious tone.