Metamorphoses - Closing

EPILOGUE

Now I have finished my work, which nothing can ever

destroy --

not Jupiter's wrath, nor fire nor sword, nor devouring

time.

That day which has power over nothing except this

body of mine

may come when it will and end the uncertain span of

my life.

But the finer part of myself shall sweep me in eternity,

higher than all the stars. My name shall be never

forgotten.

Wherever the might of Rome extends in the lands she

has conquered,

the people shall read and recite my words. Throughout

all ages,

if poets have vision to prophesy truth, I shall live in my

fame.