To an Unknown Goddess

Ever since Plato sought to ban it from the just polis, philosophers and poets alike have debated the proper form and inspiration of poetry. This volume seeks to give poetic voice to three distinct but related kinds of love. Part I is driven by the erotic desire for beauty and pleasure and for the related value of merited justice. The verses in Part II rely on philia for insight into friendship and community and the related good of humor. Part III focuses on and expresses agape as the unconditional love of God and neighbor. Unlike previous sections, which depend on perceived excellence and natural reciprocity, Part III explores the supernatural realm of grace and the related gift of forgiveness.