1. Why, son of Laertes, did you hesitate
Though you are brave and bold at heart?

2. Why lag behind out of fear for your life
While men of mettle have stepped forward?

3. In spirit I hoped to find you both
Marching onward with your ranks

4. But instead I see you have failed
To be first when honor is bestowed

5. For there you’d feast on tender meat
And wine poured freely in your cups

6. While here it pleases you that legions
Ten strong cower and withdraw before you

7. Why do I hold back both of you
While the blood of foes stains the plains?

8. Angrily Odysseus replied: Do you not see
They judge me dilatory and timid?

9. But if our battle is fate’s decree
You will see me with the nobles and braves

10. And there you will find me in the enemy's midst
While here I see you posing proudly

11. With a smile, rebuking his rage, he said:
Gently, my son, I do not condemn you

12. For I have tested your wisdom and found you wise
And our ambitions and duties are equal

13. Let whatever harsh words I uttered
Blow away, fading into nothingness

14. And if my speech was too severe
I will make amends and apologize

15. Then he briskly strode away
To Zeus, majestic and sublime

16. And found him erect, alone
Aloof from the field of strife

17. Near him was a glowering Ares
Scowling at his retreat and withdrawal