Ye have heard how Marsyas
Marsyas is a poem written by Bliss Carman in 1902. The poem tells the story of a satyr named Marsyas who challenges Apollo, the god of music and poetry, to a musical contest. Despite being outmatched, Marsyas plays his flute with such passion and skill that he is able to move Apollo to tears. In the end, Apollo is so impressed with Marsyas' talent that he declares him the winner of the contest. Your response?
By Bliss Carman · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Classic Literature, Drama · 136 words
First lines
Ye have heard how Marsyas, In the folly of his pride, Boasted of a matchless skill, -- When the great god's back was turned;
How his fond imagining Fell to ashes cold and grey, When the flawless player came In serenity and light.
So it was with those I loved In the years ere I loved thee. Many a saying sounds like truth, Until Truth itself is heard.
Many a beauty only lives Until Beauty passes by, And the mortal is forgot In the shadow of the god.
What this Textopian page supports
Ye have heard how Marsyas is listed on Textopian as a poem by Bliss Carman, dated 1902 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Bliss Carman
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Classic Literature, Drama
- Length: 136 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Ye have heard how Marsyas by Bliss Carman
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Ye have heard how Marsyas?
- How does this poem by Bliss Carman fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — Bliss Carman was a well-regarded Canadian poet and 'Ye have heard how Marsyas' is noted for its poetic writing style.
- Classic Literature — The writing style and themes of the book are in a style common to classic literature.
- Drama — The book explores dramatic themes and includes theatrical elements.
Tags
poetry · symbolism · nature · mythology · religion · philosophy · metaphor · allegory · fable · legend · folklore · supernatural