Blending science, psychology, and philosophy into an epic poem, Lucretius (ca. 99 BCE- ca. 55 BCE) explores the science of atoms, what we now call physics; hints at the principles of "natural selection"; and promotes the enlightened view of reason over superstition. Some of Lucretius claims are patently absurd to our modern ears, still much of his sounder thoughts paved the way for modern science and philosophy. Clearly he was a visionary, a man ahead of his time. Ovid, Cicero, Montaigne, and more recently, George Santayana, praised Lucretius, and yet not suprisingly, for centuries the Catholic Church denounced Lucretius as an enemy of religion and did their best to suppress his work. This incredible poem which seeks to understand our very beginnings in the cosmic universe builds a bridge between Lucretius' ancient world and our modern scientific civilization.
Humphries uses clear modern English that meets the challenges of Lucretius' poetry. His translation was nominated for the National Book Award in 1969.
Humphries uses clear modern English that meets the challenges of Lucretius' poetry. His translation was nominated for the National Book Award in 1969.
