The story of forbidden love dates back thousands of years. Although we often associate this with Romeo and Juliet, there are stories even older, like Hades and Persephone. This story has captivated millions throughout the centuries, inspiring poems, movies, and images. One such poem captures the feelings of Hades in the form of a letter.
The Aduction of the Goddess
Persephone was born to Demeter, the goddess of harvest and fertility, and Zeus, the king of the gods. She was known for her beauty and even caught the attention of Hades, ruler of the Underworld. He was said to have fallen in love with her the moment he laid eyes on her and desired her. That is why he kidnapped her one day when she was fathering flowers in a meadow.
It was said that Hades emerged from a chasm and seized her before dragging her off. This left Demeter grief-stricken and unable to perform her godly duties. Soon, crops failed, the land became barren, and famine spread through the land. To try and fix the situation, Zeus demanded the release of Persephone.
Although Hades initially agreed, he secretly tricked Persephone into consuming the seeds of a pomegranate before she left. As these were from the Underworld, it bound Persephone there. This allowed her to spend part of the year with her mother on Earth and part of it in the Underworld. This was said to have caused the seasons as when she was in the Underworld, Demeter would go into mourning in autumn and winter, while when she was free Demeter would rejoice in summer and spring.
This story has remained incredibly popular throughout the centuries with countless artists and poets exploring its themes and ideas. Some have even gone so far as to try and portray Hades in a more sympathetic like, depicting their relationship less as lustful and more as being starcrossed lovers.
One example of this is from the graphic novel, Lore Olympus by Rachel Smythe. To accompany the story, they also released a poem about Hades. One that shows in a more sympathetic light.
Oh goddess of the glowing Spring
my dear Persephone,
I hope my letter finds you well
beside the verdant tree.I noticed how you sprung to life
when sunlight kissed your skin.
I’m hoping that you bring that glow
when you come home again.I’m sorry that the time is short
the sun will soon be set,
but linger on till you are done
for Spring has not gone yet.Just come back home when Spring has passed,
-Jac Harmony
my dear Persephone.
I’ll wait for you beside the roots
beneath the verdant tree.
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