The Odyssey. By Homer.

I’m currently halfway through The Odyssey by Homer and this is my first time reading it. I’d like to share my thoughts on why I think it’s a great story all men should read.

I’m currently in what the Greeks called, “The apex of youth.” A time merriment and hard work and of finding yourself. And the perfect time to read The Odyssey. 

            I’m reading a slightly antiquated translation of the novel so I’m going at a slower pace than usual put that’s okay. Like an as seen on tv sponge I’m soaking it all in, and retaining it, too.

            I love how the story starts. It starts in the middle of the conflict with Telemachos going from stasis to change right away. You see this in the way that he addresses his mother Penelopia, who is lamenting over the “death” of her husband and Telemachos’ father, Odysseus. Basically he tells her that she’s not the only one who lost somebody in the war with Troy and that if she doesn’t like the singing of the bards then she should go to her room. She is startled by her son’s outburst but is surprised how manly he has become.

            I really like how this story starts because it puts the reader right in the middle of the action. It takes no time to get to the root of the problem. It’s really one of the first novels and a great heroes’ journey story.

            They way Homer incorporated myth and real life is rather interesting. With the gods playing a pivotal role within the context of the narrative. I never thought Athena would be such a great character and she’s a rather alpha female and quite possibly one of the first.

            How this translation is worded is my only complaint about the novel so far. It’s a bit dated for my taste but that doesn’t take away from the story too much. And if I’m ever lost or confused I always have the Internet at my disposal. Although, I haven’t had to use it yet.